He made the remarks on September 10, 2025, during a reception in Kigali celebrating the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the victory against Japanese aggression 80 years ago.
The event brought together officials including Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Wellars Gasamagera, Secretary General of the Rwandan Patriotic Front; and Dr. Ndabamenye, Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources.
Representatives of international organisations, members of the diplomatic corps, defence attachés, the Chinese community in Rwanda and friends of China were also in attendance.
Amb. Wenqi underscored the depth of Rwanda–China relations, noting they had reached “historic highs” since the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last year. He pointed to both countries standing “shoulder-to-shoulder” on matters of core interest and praised Rwanda for its solidarity on sovereignty.
“We highly value Rwanda’s support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and adherence to the One-China principle,” he said.
The One-China principle was formally established in 1949, after the Communist Party of China took power on the mainland and the defeated Nationalist forces retreated to Taiwan.
Since then, Beijing has maintained that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and opposes any recognition of it as an independent state.
The envoy also reflected on the broader meaning of the 76th anniversary. He recalled the immense sacrifice China endured during 14 years of resistance against Japanese aggression, which claimed nearly 35 million lives.
From that tragedy, he said, China emerged more resilient, transforming itself into the world’s second-largest economy and lifting over 100 million Chinese out of poverty in ten years.
“This was fundamentally a triumph of justice crushing tyranny, light dispelling darkness, and progress defeating regression,” Amb. Wenqi said, stressing the importance of safeguarding peace and strengthening solidarity among nations.
On the economic front, Ambassador Wenqi highlighted that bilateral trade between China and Rwanda surged to a record high of US$670 million in 2024, with China remaining Rwanda’s leading source of foreign direct investment.
He pointed to projects such as Masaka Hospital, modern highways, and smart education systems as evidence of China’s contribution to Rwanda’s development. He also noted that the successful debut of EHang’s pilotless human-carrying flight in Rwanda has paved the way for deeper collaboration in emerging technologies.
Beyond infrastructure and innovation, Amb. Wenqi emphasized that economic cooperation also strengthens people-to-people links.
Scholarships, training opportunities, cultural exchanges, and even participation in events like Kwita Izina, he said, deepen mutual understanding and showcase the “genuine desire for Rwanda’s wellbeing” that underpins the partnership.
Amb. Wenqi also reaffirmed China’s readiness to work with Rwanda to implement the vision shared by their Heads of State and the outcomes of the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, with the aim of further propelling their partnership forward.
Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and China date back to 1971, Both countries have forged a strong relationship grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for development.
Amb. Gao presented credentials to President Paul Kagame to oversee China’s interests on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. He succeeded Amb. Wang Xuekun, who had officially held the role since September 2022.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, highlighted China’s National Day (celebrated on October 1) as an opportunity to recognize the country’s remarkable achievements, noting that its experience offers an inspiring path for development.
Gen (Rtd) Kabarebe also praised China’s contribution to Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation, and excellent bilateral relations between the two countries, grounded in trust, mutual respect, and practical collaboration.
The MoU was signed on July 28, between Wellington Dias, Minister of Development and Social Assistance, Family and Fight Against Hunger and co-chair of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, and Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, the Rwandan Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, on the sidelines of the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4) in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.
Dr. Bagabe welcomed the deal as a great milestone in bilateral cooperation. “Today is an important moment in our relations with Brazil. We are consolidating our partnerships in agricultural extension and technology transfer,” he noted.
The signed agreement includes a wide range of joint initiatives aimed at promoting resilient agriculture, strengthening public policies, and expanding access to inputs, technologies, and water for agricultural production in both countries.
Wellington Dias also celebrated the agreement with Rwanda and the current situation in Brazil.
“We are delighted that we are advancing in this partnership. We celebrate this new stage and will work towards positive results in the future. We are working to ensure the eradication of hunger and poverty and are exchanging experiences between the two countries,” he said.
The Brazilian minister explained that the signing of the memorandum and Rwanda’s commitment to the Accelerated Implementation Plan, within the framework of the Global Alliance, represent a strategic opportunity to advance the goals of eradicating hunger and poverty.
“We will motivate our technical teams to begin implementing activities as soon as possible to achieve concrete results, demonstrating the effectiveness of South-South cooperation,” he emphasized.
Wellington emphasized how these initiatives will benefit development in Rwanda, which, along with Brazil, is one of the founding countries of the Global Alliance.
“Cooperation in small-scale agriculture is essential, but through the Global Alliance, we are also already advancing with Rwanda in the area of socioeconomic inclusion, both urban and rural,” he continued.
The diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Brazil began in 1981, and since then, the two countries have signed several cooperation agreements. For example, in 2019, they signed a Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) to facilitate air travel between the two nations.
In 2011, they also signed another agreement focused on cooperation for food security. Brazil is the world’s leading producer of coffee, soybeans, sugarcane, and oranges.
Since 2022, Rwanda has been importing wheat from Brazil after supplies from Ukraine significantly declined. Rwanda also regularly imports products such as sugar from Brazil.
One of the signed MoUs establishes comprehensive cooperation in the agriculture sector, a vital area for both countries given its role in food security and economic development.
The agreement aims to promote joint efforts in research, market access, and climate-resilient farming, with the goal of increasing agricultural productivity and achieving food self-sufficiency across the region.
The second MoU formalizes the establishment and operationalization of the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) liaison office in Kigali. Although the office has been operational since March 2018, this renewed agreement reflects a shared determination to enhance its role in facilitating trade.
By enabling direct cargo clearance, faster information exchange, and easier payment systems, the TPA office in Kigali plays a strategic role in supporting Rwanda’s imports and exports through the Port of Dar es Salaam.
The signing ceremony was attended by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Tanzanian counterpart, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering closer cooperation.
“Our partnership with Tanzania goes beyond trade,” said Amb. Nduhungirehe. “It is deeply rooted in our shared history, common cultural values, and a collective commitment to advancing the well-being of our people.”
He credited the progress in bilateral relations to the visionary leadership of both countries’ Heads of State, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong collaboration within regional blocs such as the East African Community.
Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo echoed this sentiment, stating, “Rwanda is a valuable partner for Tanzania. If over 70% of Rwandan goods transit through Tanzania, it clearly shows how important Rwanda is to our ports.”
He also underscored the strategic importance of the Kigali-Isaka Standard Gauge Railway project, which remains a key item on the bilateral agenda, and pointed to growing Tanzanian investments in Rwanda, particularly in the energy sector.
The discussions also addressed cooperation in tourism, environmental conservation, and investment promotion.
This commitment was underscored during a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda at the Kigali Marriott Hotel on the evening of Friday, July 11, 2025, to celebrate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The event coincided with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
It brought together members of the Defence Attachés Association in Rwanda, the diplomatic corps, Rwandan government officials, the Chinese community in Rwanda, and friends of China.
Speaking at the event, Chinese Defence Attaché to Rwanda, Senior Navy Captain Li Dayi, highlighted the PLA’s historic role in safeguarding national independence, promoting peace, and supporting global stability.
Since its founding on August 1, 1927, the PLA has undergone nearly a century of transformation, aligning military growth with China’s national rejuvenation and its commitment to international peace.
Senior Navy Captain Li noted that peacekeeping is embedded in the PLA’s ethos, pointing out that China has contributed more than 50,000 personnel to 25 UN peacekeeping missions since 1990, the highest among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
He also acknowledged China’s naval efforts in protecting international shipping routes in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia.
On China-Rwanda military ties, Li praised the growing relationship between the PLA and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), citing increasing mutual trust, training exchanges, and ongoing military cooperation.
“The relations between the Chinese People’s Liberation Army and the Rwanda Defence Force have yielded fruitful outcomes over the years. Mutual trust has been continually enhanced as a result of deepened cooperation in high-level exchanges, personnel training, and military aid and trade,” he noted.
“China is willing to continue to work together with African brothers including Rwanda, to deepen cooperation in national defense, to jointly address regional security challenges, to support “African solutions to African problems,” Li added.
Maj Gen Alex Kagame, the Rwanda Reserve Force Chief of Staff (RFCOS) who represented the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized that the history of the Chinese People’s Revolutionary Army is a powerful symbol of courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and unity.
He observed that these are values Rwandans also hold in high regard and strongly identify with.
Maj Gen Kagame further praised the role of the Chinese People’s Revolutionary Army in advancing the professionalization and capacity building of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
To date, over 300 RDF personnel have graduated from Chinese military institutions in the past decade, with many more currently undergoing training in China.
“I therefore wish to reiterate that Rwanda’s commitment deepens our cooperation and promotes mutual understanding. With that in mind, the upcoming signing of an MOU on defence cooperation will further strengthen our defence capabilities,” he noted.
The longstanding relations between Rwanda and China span 76 years, marked by substantial cooperation in various areas.
The discussions underscored the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, building on the outcomes of the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized the elevation of China-Rwanda relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, a milestone achieved during last year’s FOCAC Summit when Presidents Xi Jinping and Paul Kagame issued a joint statement to advance the three global initiatives proposed by China: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative.
These initiatives provide a robust framework for advancing bilateral ties and aligning development goals. Wang stressed that both nations are committed to supporting each other, implementing the FOCAC outcomes, and upholding the Changsha Declaration to safeguard the interests of developing countries and promote international fairness and justice.
A key focus of the discussions was the shared vision for modernization. Wang Yi articulated that modernization does not equate to Westernization, advocating for a model that aligns with each country’s unique national conditions.
China expressed its willingness to engage in mutual learning with Rwanda on governance experiences, aiming to foster self-reliant and sustainable development paths that enhance the well-being of their people and contribute to global progress. This approach resonates with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, a national plan to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2035 and a high-income economy by 2050.
Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s support for Rwanda’s development ambitions, pledging to deepen practical cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, health, and education, while fostering exchanges between governments, political parties, legislatures, and local communities. This commitment builds on over five decades of friendship, during which China has contributed significantly to Rwanda’s development, particularly in areas such as road construction, electricity, and healthcare.
Minister Nduhungirehe echoed these sentiments, noting the positive outcomes of the long-standing partnership. He highlighted the tangible benefits of the elevated bilateral relationship following the 2024 FOCAC Summit, particularly for the Rwandan people.
Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s steadfast commitment to the one-China principle and expressed enthusiasm for implementing the ten partnership actions outlined at the Summit, which aim to drive modernization through independent and self-reliant means. Rwanda also voiced strong support for China’s three global initiatives, recognizing their potential to foster a peaceful and prosperous world.
The meeting also addressed regional peace and security, with a focus on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Nduhungirehe commended China’s active role in promoting dialogue and political solutions to the conflict in the region. Wang Yi reiterated China’s commitment to playing a constructive role in fostering peace in eastern DRC, emphasizing diplomacy and collaboration.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971, Rwanda and China have forged a strong relationship grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for development. In recent years, this bond has grown through increased partnerships and political understanding.
During his stay in China Nduhungrehe attended the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Changsha, where he commended the broader China–Africa cooperation framework and its impact across multiple sectors.
He also met with members of the Rwandan Community in Changsha and surrounding cities and presided over the Rwanda-China Investment Promotion forum.
The event, held on Friday, May 30, 2025, brought together members of the Chinese community in Rwanda, Rwandan government representatives, and friends of China to celebrate both the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations and the traditional Chinese holiday.
Rwanda was chosen as the first African country to screen this film with a runtime of 2 hours 16 minutes, underscoring the growing cultural ties between China and Rwanda.
Detective Chinatown 1900, the fourth installment in the popular Chinese comedy-mystery franchise, directed by Chen Sicheng and Dai Mo, premiered globally on January 29, 2025, during the Chinese New Year.
The film, set in San Francisco’s Chinatown in 1900, follows Qin Fu (Liu Haoran), a Chinese medicine practitioner, and Ah Gui (Wang Baoqiang), a Chinese man raised by a Native American tribe, as they investigate the murders of a white woman, Alice, and an elderly Native American man.
The prime suspect is Bai Zhenbang, son of Chinatown leader Bai Xuanling (Chow Yun-Fat). The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of anti-Chinese xenophobia fueled by the Chinese Exclusion Act, blending humor, action, and poignant social commentary on racism and cultural identity.
{{Who killed Alice?}}
The investigation reveals a complex conspiracy: Alice’s murder was orchestrated by a corrupt businessman in collusion with a xenophobic congressman (John Cusack) to frame Bai Zhenbang and stoke anti-Chinese sentiment for political and economic gain.
The elderly Native American’s death was a related cover-up. There is no indication that Bai Xuanling, the influential Chinatown leader, was involved in Alice’s death; rather, he plays a pivotal role in protecting the community.
Qin Fu and Ah Gui’s clever deductions expose the true culprits, resolving the case while highlighting ongoing racial tensions, leaving a bittersweet reflection on cultural harmony.
Speaking at the event, Lin Hang, Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kigali, highlighted the film’s global success and symbolic importance for Africa and Rwanda.
“Detective Chinatown 1900 is a blockbuster, which was officially launched on January 29 and so far has made a revenue of 1.3 billion US$ globally. It’s the first screening of the movie in Africa, choosing Rwanda as the first and unique country. It’s a special and joyful occasion, the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival,” she noted.
She also reflected on the reasons behind the film’s widespread popularity.
“More importantly, it may be attributed to the focus on the respect and equality, tolerance and inclusiveness, mutual learning and appreciation, and harmonious coexistence of civilizations. This is particularly meaningful for today’s world, which is plagued by frequent conflicts and turmoils.”
{{The essence of Dragon Boat Festival}}
Dragons in Chinese culture symbolize, among others, good luck, protection and intelligence. The festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (May 31, 2025), commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in the Miluo River in despair over political betrayal.
Locals raced boats to save him and dropped sticky rice dumplings (zongzi) to protect his body, origins of the festival’s dragon boat races and zongzi traditions.
The Kigali screening also underscored the shared cultural values between China and Rwanda as highlighted by Hang who praised Rwanda’s support for China’s Global Civilization Initiative.
“Rwanda’s cosponsoring of [the UN resolution for the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations] is highly appreciated,” she stated.
“Like Rwanda, we oppose others imposing their own governance and development models on us. We are firmly against the interference of our internal affairs in the name of so-called democracy and human rights,” Hang added as she underscored shared values.
Hang also celebrated cultural exchanges, such as the upcoming participation of Rwanda’s Agaseke Culture Center in the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in June 2025, which will showcase Rwandan culture alongside Chinese traditions.
She concluded with a call to action: “Let’s work together for a better world with peace, stability and prosperity, for future and our next generations.”
This project, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), aims to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability across East Africa.
ENSURE seeks to improve long-term agricultural sustainability by expanding access to robust extension services and strengthening Partner States’ capacity to deliver effective training and responsive services.
It will focus on three primary areas: creating a harmonized regional policy for extension and inputs, deploying a regional pluralistic extension approach (involving public, private, and NGO sectors), and building capacity to address trans-boundary pests like the fall armyworm and desert locusts.
Over 5 million people, including 50% women, are expected to benefit from improved agricultural extension systems, and the project is expected to create at least 1 million jobs, with half of those benefiting women.
Speaking during the launch of the project on Tuesday, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Infrastructure, Productive, Social and Political Sectors, Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth, said that the project begins at a pivotal moment as the EAC aims to transform its agricultural sector through various initiatives, including the Agricultural Inputs System Development Programme and the EAC Regional Agriculture Investment Plan (RAIP).
The DSG underscored the importance of the project in promoting a regional approach to strengthening agricultural extension, enhancing the role of extension in transforming agriculture, facilitating farmers access to advice and information, and supporting the adoption of climate-smart technologies and building the resilience of farming communities.
“I ask everyone to concentrate on how our efforts will contribute to the project’s broader goals, while also emphasizing value for money. Our citizens are the true stakeholders in this process, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the outcomes of this project lead to meaningful improvements in the agricultural sector of the Partner States.”
Ariik further emphasised the critical role of agriculture in the region’s economic landscape, adding that the agricultural sector remains the backbone of EAC economies in addition to employing over 60% of the population.
On his part, the AfDB Chief Agricultural Technologies Officer – Agricultural Research, Production and Sustainability, Dr. Innocent Musyabimana, highlighted the importance of investment in agriculture for fostering regional development.
“The African Development Bank is committed to financing projects that enhance agricultural resilience and productivity. We are proud to support the ENSURE Project, as it aligns with our mission to improve food security and reduce poverty across the continent,” said Dr. Nusyabimana.
Dr. Musyabimana said the project seeks to address the main challenges faced by farmers in the region including: limited access to extension services and training, limited access to new climate-smart technologies and inputs, and limited knowledge and skills to use these inputs effectively.
“With the use of digital extension technologies (internet, podcasts, videos, social media platforms), the project will seek to bridge the gap in access to extension information between men, women, and youth by promoting more equitable access among these different beneficiaries,” he said.
The three-year project is expected to meaningfully support the improvement of women and men’s access to agricultural technology and knowledge to support the implementation of its Gender Policy and place the institution as a leader in this sector.
The project will concentrate on advancing agricultural innovations that can attract youth to participate in agricultural activities as well as reduce the workload for women and boost their productivity and raise their income.
The meeting brought together stakeholders from the rice sector to assess progress, discuss challenges, and advocate for increased investment to strengthen the sector’s development.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, emphasized the importance of improving rice productivity and aligning production with market demands.
“The rice value chain has become a critical part of Rwanda’s food systems. Income from rice cultivation contributes to improved livelihoods in rural areas and drives national economic growth,” he stated.
The event was organized under the leadership of Ms. Alice Mukamugena, the Director General of Agriculture Value Chain Management and Trade at MINAGRI, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving the sector’s goals.
“This meeting provides an essential platform for stakeholders to share progress, identify challenges, and work together toward solutions for the growth of Rwanda’s rice sector,” she remarked.
{{Progress and Challenges in the Rice Sector
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During the meeting, updates on the progress of the rice sector over the past five years were shared. The area under rice cultivation expanded from 29,600 hectares to 34,900 hectares, and annual paddy rice production increased from 116,500 to 141,900 metric tons.
Post-harvest infrastructure has also improved, with 585 drying grounds now capable of processing 14,495 metric tons of paddy rice. Additionally, 28 rice milling companies currently operate in Rwanda, 14 of which are certified by the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB).
These companies are organized under the Rwanda Forum for Rice Millers (RFRM), an industry body that promotes coordination, advocates for millers’ needs, and works to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the rice milling sector.
Farmer cooperatives were also recognized as key drivers of the rice sector’s development. The sector is supported by 120 cooperatives, of which 75 are organized into unions under the National Federation of Rice Farmers’ Cooperatives (FUCORIRWA). FUCORIRWA plays a vital role in coordinating activities across the value chain, from production to marketing, ensuring that farmers’ interests are well-represented and their productivity enhanced.
The meeting also featured participation from the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), which plays a critical role in addressing the challenges of rice breeding and seed production. RAB collaborates with research institutions and private sector partners to develop high-yield, resilient rice varieties. Its efforts have been instrumental in improving seed availability, but gaps in the seed system remain a key barrier, highlighting the need for continued investment in seed production and distribution systems.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain. Only 55% of the potential area for rice cultivation has been developed, and climate change impacts, such as flash floods and water scarcity, pose risks to rice farming. Furthermore, low utilization rates of local rice mills—currently operating at 47% capacity—and gaps in post-harvest infrastructure constrain the sector’s potential. Rwanda continues to import 78% of its rice to meet demand.
“These challenges also present untapped opportunities for investment,” Dr. Bagabe noted, urging stakeholders to collaborate on solutions. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the National Rice Development Strategy-2 (NRDS-2) in alignment with the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and the Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5).
{{Key Insights and Partnerships
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Ms. Shiotsuka Minako, Chief Representative of JICA in Rwanda, addressed the audience, highlighting JICA’s support for the rice sector through the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD) initiative.
She explained that Rwanda has been an active member of CARD since its launch in 2010, which aims to double rice production across Africa. Under this initiative, Rwanda successfully implemented its first National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS-1) and is now making strides with NRDS-2 (2020–2030).
Ms. Shiotsuka commended MINAGRI for its leadership and reiterated JICA’s commitment to providing technical support and capacity building to further enhance the rice value chain in Rwanda.
{{Vision for the Future
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The NRDS-2 aims to triple domestic rice production to 390,000 metric tons by 2030. This will be achieved by expanding the area under rice cultivation to 60,000 hectares and increasing productivity to 6.5 metric tons per hectare. MINAGRI and RAB will play central roles in driving this transformation, providing strategic leadership and ensuring that necessary investments and policies are implemented to strengthen the entire rice value chain.
By supporting these efforts, FUCORIRWA and RFRM will foster coordination among farmers and millers, advocate for their needs, and improve the efficiency and competitiveness of rice production and processing. RAB’s leadership in rice breeding and seed production will also remain critical to boosting productivity and ensuring that farmers have access to high-quality, resilient seeds.
Ms. Mukamugena, in her closing remarks, reiterated the importance of collective efforts in achieving the sector’s goals.
“The growth of the rice sector requires collaboration not only from the government but also from all stakeholders. Together, we can achieve sustainable development in this vital sector,” she concluded.
The appreciation was voiced on January 16, 2025, as the four-year project officially came to an end during a ceremony that celebrated its achievements.
The event included testimonials from beneficiaries, coffee exhibitions, and tastings, and it was graced by coffee industry stakeholders, TechnoServe staff, and various partners, including representatives from the Government of Rwanda.
The Rwanda INC project, implemented in six districts, was funded by the European Union (EU) with a contribution of €2 million and JDE Peet’s, which provided €500,000.
It sought to enhance Rwanda’s coffee value chain by enabling farmers, washing stations, and service providers to access critical information and financing, ensuring they could produce high-quality coffee for local, regional, and international markets.
TechnoServe’s presence in Rwanda spans over 15 years, during which the organization has empowered more than 80,000 farmers and entrepreneurs.
The Rwanda INC program is one of over 15 projects TechnoServe has implemented in the country, making a profound impact on the coffee sector.
In addition to distributing over 1.9 million coffee seedlings, it supported more than 11,000 coffee farmers.
The initiative also trained 53 young professionals in collaboration with the Coffee Quality Institute, fostering their growth in the coffee sector.
Additionally, 50 Coffee Washing Stations received support to improve their quality and operational efficiency, further strengthening Rwanda’s coffee production capabilities.
Dr. Olivier Kamana, the Permanent Secretary at MINAGRI, praised TechnoServe for its critical role in advancing the nation’s coffee industry.
He highlighted the productive collaboration between TechnoServe and the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), noting the development of quality and sustainable guidelines that will benefit the coffee sector for years to come.
“The decision to transfer ownership of the Digital Farmer Extension Monitoring System to NAEB demonstrates your commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of these interventions,” he noted.
Dr. Kamana reaffirmed the government’s dedication to building upon the achievements of the Rwanda INC project and pledged to expand its successful interventions to other Coffee Washing Stations across the country.
The impact of the project extended to individuals and businesses across the coffee sector.
Christine Vuguziga, co-founder of Ngoma Coffee Washing Station in Nyamasheke District, described how the project transformed her operations.
“The project enabled us to plant 40,000 new coffee trees, which grow faster and adapt to climate changes. We also use a digital application that helps our agronomists address farmers’ issues, resulting in better yields,” she said.
Similarly, Manasseh Hategekimana, a graduate from IPRC Huye College in crop production, expressed his gratitude for the training he received through TechnoServe and the Coffee Quality Institute.
“Before the training, I didn’t see coffee farming as a viable career for youth. But after gaining skills and earning a Professional Certificate, I got employed immediately.
“Today, I’m an agronomist at the Land of Thousand Hills Coffee Company. I encourage more young people to explore opportunities in coffee farming and processing because it’s a lucrative industry,” Hategekimana shared.
Sophie Duchanoy, TechnoServe Rwanda’s Country Manager, reflected on the project’s success in elevating the value of Rwandan coffee in local and international markets.
She expressed her deepest gratitude to the EU, JDE Peet’s, and the Government of Rwanda for their trust and support, which enabled the program to achieve its goals.
“By supporting farmers, washing stations, and service providers, the program has facilitated access to critical information and financing needed to produce high-quality coffee for local, regional, and international markets,” she noted.
Amparo Gonzalez Diez, team leader of the Agriculture and Rural Development section at the EU delegation to Rwanda, commended the project for its emphasis on youth involvement and modern practices while pledging the EU’s continued support for Rwanda’s coffee sector.
Although the Rwanda INC project has concluded, TechnoServe remains active in Rwanda through the ReGenerate Rwanda project, funded by the Swedish Embassy.
This initiative aims to sustainably increase incomes for 30,000 individuals living in poverty in the Western and Southern Provinces.
By collaborating with private sector partners, the project seeks to develop innovative business solutions that address unmet demands for essential products and services.
With a focus on inclusivity, the project integrates women and youth as key drivers of transformative growth, advancing regenerative economic models that promise to build a sustainable future for Rwanda’s coffee industry and beyond.
As we approach the close of 2024, it is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the remarkable strides made in Rwanda’s agricultural sector.
In this article, we revisit the key moments and significant achievements that have shaped the agricultural landscape of Rwanda throughout 2024, marking it as a transformative year for the sector.
{{17th Rwanda National Agriculture Show}}
One of the key highlights of Rwanda’s agricultural calendar was the 17th Rwanda National Agriculture Show, which took place from July 31 to August 9, 2024, at the Mulindi showground in Gasabo District, Kigali.
This year’s event was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) under the theme “Building Resilient and Sustainable Food Systems.”
The show attracted over 470 exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations and developments in the agricultural sector.
The exhibition was a vibrant display of cutting-edge technologies aimed at bolstering Rwanda’s food systems, with a focus on climate resilience and sustainability.
Among the notable exhibits were solar-powered irrigation systems, hydroponics, modern livestock management, mechanization technologies, and the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in farming.
The Rwanda National Agriculture Show serves as a critical platform for stakeholders within the agriculture sector, including individual farmers, farmer organizations, financial service providers, and international entities supporting the industry.
The event provided an opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge, discover new products and services, and foster partnerships that will contribute to the creation of sustainable agricultural systems in Rwanda and the wider region.
At the opening ceremony, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources, Eric Rwigamba, underscored the importance of collaboration within the agricultural sector to achieve food security.
He called on stakeholders to identify scalable solutions and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued investment in agriculture.
{{Rwanda and Guinea sign MoU in agriculture}}
On June 3, 2024, Rwanda and Guinea-Conakry signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in agriculture and animal resources.
The agreement, signed by Rwanda’s then Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Ildephonse Musafiri, and his Guinean counterpart, Felix Lamah, outlines areas of collaboration in crop and animal production, pest and disease control, and agricultural research.
The MoU encompasses a variety of initiatives, such as sharing knowledge and expertise in plant production, promoting value addition, and expanding market access for agricultural products.
Additionally, it includes the digitalization of agro-input distribution and agricultural insurance, as well as the fostering of innovation and technology transfer.
This partnership not only aims to improve agricultural productivity in both countries but also strengthens ties between Rwanda and Guinea in the pursuit of sustainable agricultural development.
{{Rwanda presents key investment opportunities in agriculture }}
On October 15, 2024, Rwanda showcased its agricultural investment opportunities at the Hand in Hand Investment Forum in Rome, Italy.
The forum, hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighted the country’s ambition to transform its agricultural sector through substantial investments.
Rwanda presented five key investment opportunities totalling $785 million, focusing on areas with significant growth potential.
These include investments in tea, livestock, potatoes, horticulture, and beef production.
The tea sector alone saw a $289 million investment aimed at expanding cultivation and establishing a new factory in Nyamagabe, while $169.8 million was earmarked for enhancing poultry and pig production.
Additionally, investments of $63.8 million and $222.3 million will support potato production and the expansion of horticulture, respectively, focusing on high-value crops like avocado and chilli peppers.
These investments are aligned with Rwanda’s Fifth Strategic Plan for Agricultural Transformation (PSTA 5) for 2024-2029, which aims to build resilient and sustainable agri-food systems.
The then Minister of Agriculture, Ildephonse Musafiri, emphasized that these investment opportunities not only promise business growth but also contribute to job creation, especially for women and youth, and to the overall development of the agricultural sector.
{{Rwanda’s agricultural exports reach $3.2 billion over five years}}
Rwanda’s agricultural sector has made significant strides in terms of exports, with revenue from agricultural exports reaching $3.2 billion (over 4.3 trillion Rwandan Francs) between 2020 and 2024. This marked a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural export growth.
In the 2023/2024 fiscal year alone, agricultural exports generated $839.2 million (around Frw1.1 trillion), representing a slight decrease from the previous year.
Despite this, Rwanda continues to see strong export volumes, including 261.6 million kilograms of vegetables, fruits, and flowers, which contributed significantly to the nation’s economy.
Advancements in air transport, particularly through RwandAir, have played a crucial role in expanding Rwanda’s export capacity.
In 2023, RwandAir cargo flights transported 4,595 tons of goods to major international markets, including Dubai, the UK, and Belgium.
Rwanda’s government has set an ambitious goal to double its exports to $7.3 billion over the next five years, with agricultural exports expected to grow significantly as part of this vision.
{{Rwanda hosts Africa Food Systems Forum 2024}}
From September 2-6, 2024, Rwanda hosted the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum) in Kigali. The forum brought together over 4,900 participants from across the globe to engage in discussions aimed at transforming Africa’s food systems.
The theme for this year’s forum was “Innovate, Accelerate, and Scale: Delivering Food Systems Transformation in a Digital and Climate Era.”
The forum addressed critical issues such as climate resilience, digital technologies, and the need for inclusive food systems across the African continent.
Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Dr. Edouard Ngirente, called for governments to utilize digital technologies and implement climate-resilient practices to ensure food security for all Africans.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders to drive the transformation of agriculture and secure sustainable food systems.
The AFS Forum provided a platform for sharing innovative policies, business models, and technologies that will help move Africa’s food systems forward.
Rwanda’s commitment to embracing innovation and evidence-based policymaking in its agricultural sector was highlighted as a key driver of the country’s ongoing transformation.
{{Rwanda hosts the 6th African Tea Convention and Exhibition}}
In October 2024, Rwanda also had the honour of hosting the 6th African Tea Convention and Exhibition in Kigali.
The event, held from October 9-11 at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village, brought together industry leaders, innovators, and tea enthusiasts from around the world to discuss the future of tea in Africa.
The convention, under the theme “Harmony in the Cup: Promoting Tea for People and the Planet,” attracted 476 delegates, including 108 international participants.
The exhibition showcased a wide array of tea-related products, advanced technologies, and sustainability practices in the tea industry.
The event underscored the importance of promoting environmentally-friendly practices and innovations within the tea sector.
Rwanda, known for its high-quality tea production, was able to demonstrate its leadership in the industry while fostering global collaborations.
{{Rwanda showcases its floriculture at IFTF 2024 in the Netherlands}}
Rwanda’s floriculture sector also took centre stage on the global stage in early November 2024 at the 14th edition of the International Flower Trade Fair (IFTF) in the Netherlands.
As one of the world’s largest flower trade events, IFTF 2024 attracted a record number of exhibitors, including Rwanda’s delegation, which showcased premium flowers under the Rwanda Fresh brand.
The event provided a platform for Rwanda to engage with international buyers, strengthen its position in the global flower market, and showcase the country’s commitment to sustainable floriculture practices.
Rwanda’s participation at IFTF 2024 was a strategic move to elevate its floriculture industry, with experts like Ms. Janet Basiima, Division Manager at the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), highlighting the opportunity to elevate Rwanda’s flowers on a global scale.
