Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

How Rwanda aims to reach $192 million in coffee export earnings

Agricultural and livestock products remain among Rwanda’s strongest foreign exchange contributors. In the 2023/24 fiscal year, the country earned more than $839.2 million (over 1.2 trillion Rwandan Francs) from the export of agricultural produce.

Coffee continues to play a central role in this performance. This year alone, the crop generated $78.71 million, reinforcing Rwanda’s reputation for producing high-quality speciality coffee that enjoys strong international demand.

To boost future earnings, NAEB is intensifying efforts to expand and rejuvenate the country’s coffee plantations. This year, 2,902,145 seedlings will be planted across 1,043 hectares, while an additional 443 hectares of ageing, low-yield trees, many of which have produced for more than three decades, will be replaced. Last year, farmers planted 1.3 million seedlings as part of the same long-term expansion strategy.

A significant driver of this growth is the Promoting Smallholder Agro-export Competitiveness (PSAC) project, which runs until 2029. Under PSAC, 9 million coffee seedlings are set to be planted on 3,050 hectares. The initiative supports smallholder farmers to increase both the volume and quality of export crops, enabling them to compete more effectively in global markets.

PSAC is currently active in six major tea- and coffee-producing districts: Nyaruguru, Karongi, Nyamasheke, Rutsiro, Nyabihu, and Rulindo.

NAEB Chief Executive Officer Bizimana Claude emphasised the importance of collaboration with farmers to drive export growth.

“Working closely with coffee farmers across the country, we aim to increase exports by replacing old trees and expanding cultivation areas,” he said. “NAEB is providing new seedlings and fertilisers to ensure higher yields and better quality, helping farmers secure improved prices.”

For many farmers, the impact is already visible. Seth Ndutiye, a veteran coffee grower from the Mubuga sector in Karongi District, has cultivated coffee for 30 years.

“I began planting coffee at 15 and now have 2,000 trees,” he said. “Thanks to the new seedlings supplied by NAEB, our production has increased significantly.”

Ndutiye added that ageing trees had long been a challenge, with some producing fewer than three kilogrammes per tree for decades. In contrast, the new varieties are already yielding up to 12 kilogrammes per tree, offering hope for higher incomes and a more sustainable future for coffee farming.

Rwanda’s renewed push in the coffee sector is expected to sustain its export growth trajectory while strengthening the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers nationwide.

November 14, 2025
Foreign minister denies reports of DRC backing FDLR despite mounting evidence

Her remarks come amid long-standing international concern over alleged DRC military support for the group and ongoing instability in the region.

In a recent interview on Al Jazeera, Kayikwamba denied any government support, stating, “We do not. They are Rwandans. They have been on our territory for the past 30 years. They have been preying predominantly on our population, not on the Rwandan population.”

International human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch, have repeatedly reported that the DRC has at times supported the FDLR depending on its political relations with Rwanda. When pressed on these accusations, Kayikwamba dismissed them: “It isn’t. You are talking about 2009 when we are in 2025.”

She also sought to downplay the UN Security Council Resolution 2773, adopted in February 2025, which condemned DRC military support for the FDLR and called for its cessation, describing such incidents as isolated cases.

“Well, if there are cases of support to the FDLR, and I think this is the important distinction we need to make, it is not state policy. We are talking about individuals. We are talking about individuals within the army. And when we have evidence of that, we also have mechanisms to hold them accountable and to sanction them,” she said.

Pressed on why the Security Council addressed the Congolese military rather than the individuals allegedly involved, she insisted: “No, because these random members are still part of the army. And so the army is held accountable, and is held accountable to make sure that any behaviour that is not in line with its policy is sanctioned.”

She was taken to task over why the military had to issue a formal communiqué on 10 October 2025, if such cases were truly isolated. The directive warned soldiers not to collaborate with the FDLR, raising questions about how widespread such behaviour really is.

Kayikwamba responded: “We clearly communicate to the public and to our army that any discretion will not be tolerated.”

When asked if FDLR fighters had begun complying with disarmament efforts under the Washington agreement between Rwanda and the DRC signed in June, Kayikwamba said that some are already laying down their arms through the UN programme for reintegrating former combatants into civilian life.

However, the FDLR’s military spokesperson, Lt Col Octavien Mutimura, recently told Radio France Internationale (RFI) that their fighters have no intention of disarming and are prepared to fight if attacked.

“We are here to defend ourselves and protect the abandoned Rwandan refugees. Asking us to lay down our arms without honouring our request is just a dream,” he said.

FDLR fighters remain active across eastern DRC, including the Walikale territory, and continue coordinating with other armed factions in offensives against the AFC/M23 rebel group, which is engaged in conflict with the Kinshasa administration.

Rwanda Defence Forces spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga said in June that the FDLR comprises between 7,000 and 10,000 fighters. This week, the UN repatriated 12 FDLR combatants, highlighting the slow pace of the disarmament process.

November 14, 2025
US pushes UN backing for Gaza peace plan, Russia tables counter-resolution

The U.S. draft urges the Council to endorse a comprehensive two-year framework aimed at stabilising Gaza, restoring governance, and addressing longstanding humanitarian and security concerns. The plan outlines the creation of a new governing body, the “Board of Peace,” which would oversee the region’s transition while operating under international oversight.

The U.S. draft calls for the establishment of a temporary International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to disarm non-state armed groups in Gaza, ensure the protection of civilians, secure humanitarian corridors, and assist in the demilitarisation of the area.

The force, which is expected to be around 20,000 strong, would not include U.S. troops but would be staffed by international personnel. The draft emphasises the necessity of peace efforts, stating, “Conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood” after necessary reforms by the Palestinian Authority (PA).

Despite broad support for the idea of creating a “Board of Peace,” several member states raised concerns over the proposed framework. Issues include the lack of clarity regarding the PA’s role in the future governance structure, limited oversight mechanisms, and the vague nature of the ISF’s mandate.

“While the Board of Peace is a positive development, questions remain on how the PA will operate within this new structure,” one UNSC member noted.

In response to the U.S. proposal, Russia, currently engaged in the war in Ukraine, presented a counter-resolution calling for a more balanced approach to achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities. Russia’s draft emphasises “a unified approach” to resolving the Gaza conflict, focusing on the immediate cessation of violence and the addressing of humanitarian concerns.

“The goal is to enable the Security Council to develop a balanced, acceptable, and unified approach toward achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities,” Russia’s representative stated.

The context of these diplomatic efforts stems from the October 8, 2025, ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S., which brought about the first phase of Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.

The ceasefire paused the violence that had claimed over 69,000 Palestinian lives over two years of fighting. While the ceasefire has largely held, Israel’s repeated violations, through near-daily airstrikes and attacks, have exacerbated the fragile peace process, leading to further casualties.

The U.S. mission to the UN emphasised the critical need for adoption of the resolution, framing it as a historic opportunity to “pave a path toward enduring peace in the Middle East.”

“This is a historic moment for the international community to act decisively in securing lasting peace and stability in Gaza and the broader region,” said the U.S. Ambassador to the UN.

While the situation remains fluid and complex, the international community now faces a critical decision regarding its approach to the Gaza crisis. The Security Council’s response to the U.S. draft and Russia’s counterproposal will likely determine the trajectory of peace efforts in Gaza in the coming months.

November 14, 2025
Spin the Block returns with a December ‘R&B Oldskool’ brunch at its new home, Kōzo Kigali

Known for championing classic R&B and throwback hits in a nightlife scene often dominated by Afrobeats and Amapiano, Spin the Block is switching things up this time with a full-day party experience running from 2pm until 2am. Organisers are encouraging table reservations for those looking to enjoy the event’s premium brunch vibe, complete with Kōzo’s signature ambience.

This edition also arrives at the perfect moment for visitors travelling to Kigali for Davido’s concert at BK Arena on December 5, offering them an easy follow-up activity to keep the weekend energy going.

Staying true to its homegrown spirit, the line-up is 100% Rwandan, featuring seasoned Old Skool selectors DJ Infinity, DJ Khizzbeats, and Nicolas Peks, all known for their deep crates and silky smooth R&B blends. The event will be hosted by Rlutta, the artist behind the popular “Umeze Bon” fame, adding her trademark and charm to the stage.

According to the organisers, Spin the Block’s move to Kōzo marks a new chapter, with the venue becoming its official base for all 2026 editions. The shift signals a long-term vision to grow the brand and establish a consistent home for Kigali’s R&B faithful.

With throwbacks, slow jams, brunch plates and sunset vibes lined up, this December edition promises to be the city’s standout feel-good party of the month.

November 14, 2025
How the Girls Leaders Forum Rwanda 2025 inspired young women to lead (Video)

The event, held at the College of Business and Economics of the University of Rwanda in Gikondo, focused on leadership, gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights.

From the opening keynote, the message was clear: “You are not chickens scratching in the dirt. You are eagles, born to soar, built to lead, and destined to return to your nest to lift others.”

This powerful message encouraged participants to take charge of their potential and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Several young women stood out for their stories and achievements. Anderson Tuyizere, a project management student and GLF member, spoke about her commitment to gender justice: “I believe in women empowerment and all genders. I don’t support any injustice, whether it’s a woman or a man.” She has already launched an Equality Circle at Kepler College to create a space for dialogue and change.

Karine Usanase, from East Africa’s first business analytics cohort at Kepler College, defined gender equality as having access to opportunities without limits set by gender. Tafaul Wazil, also at Kepler, emphasised the importance of confidence: “What my brother can do, I can also do. What they can achieve, I can also achieve.”

Gloria Nshutinziza, a law student at Mount Kigali University, shared her experience overcoming doubts from male classmates. Appointed class representative in her first week, she went on to become President of the School of Law, proving her leadership through action.

The Girls Leadership Forum was first launched in 2012 at the University of Rwanda. Nkundimfura Rosette, the Executive Director of GLF Rwanda, shared the organisation’s impact on enhancing leadership among girls.

“GLF was created with the goal of transforming four key areas, the first being women’s leadership, which personally motivated me. There was a widespread belief that girls were only fit for roles like secretaries, gender officers, or protocol positions,” she said.

“I’m proud to say that GLF has made significant progress, reaching numerous universities and secondary schools, and things have changed. Girls are excelling and holding key leadership roles. We are pleased to see a shift in mindset, and with over 500 members, none of them have experienced unwanted pregnancies,” she said.

In a world where the voices of young girls are often silenced, the Pan-African Adolescent Girls Movement, targeting girls from 17 to 24, stands as a beacon of empowerment. This initiative, launched in Rwanda with the support of the Graca Machel Trust and implemented by GLF Rwanda, aims to provide adolescent girls across Africa with the tools to break through barriers and claim their rightful place as leaders of tomorrow.

The movement is designed to nurture, mentor, and connect young girls, equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead not only within their communities but across the continent.

With a vision to reshape Africa’s future, the movement is set to inspire the next generation of visionary women who will drive positive change, challenge the status quo, and create lasting impact in their societies.

Hear from some of the leading voices in the video below.

November 13, 2025
Rwanda expands agricultural exports to China with avocado deal

The Protocol on Inspection, Quarantine, and Sanitary Requirements, signed on Wednesday, November 12, will pave the way for Rwandan avocados to join the growing list of agricultural products already exported to China, a market of 1.4 billion consumers.

This development coincided with Rwanda’s participation in the 8th edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, an event that has become a key platform for promoting trade, attracting investment, and promoting cultural exchange between the two countries.

Rwandan avocados, which have already gained strong demand in markets such as the Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates, are increasingly recognised as a major export crop alongside coffee and tea. The new protocol with China represents the next step in Rwanda’s strategy to diversify export markets and reach new consumers.

Since Rwanda first appeared at the CIIE in 2018, the country has introduced a range of agricultural and processed products to the Chinese market, including coffee, tea, chili, natural honey, macadamia nuts, and handicrafts. Exports to China have grown significantly over this period, rising from US$35 million in 2019 to US$160.6 million in 2024.

“The protocol for the export of Rwanda’s avocados to China will further broaden the variety of Rwandan products available to Chinese consumers,” the embassy said in a statement released on November 4, ahead of the expo.

China remains Rwanda’s leading source of foreign direct investment, which reached US$460 million in 2024 across sectors such as manufacturing, real estate, agro-processing, and mining.

Meanwhile, Rwanda’s avocado industry has shown remarkable growth, with exports generating US$6.3 million in 2023 compared to just US$440,000 in 2013. The country exported 3,200 tonnes of avocados at an average of US$2 per kilogram and aims to increase this to 31,000 tonnes by 2029, targeting new markets in China and India.

The new avocado trade protocol is expected to not only boost Rwanda’s agricultural exports but also strengthen the country’s economic ties with China, further deepening a partnership guided by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

November 13, 2025
Over 5,000 Rwandans return home through voluntary repatriation in 2025

According to MINEMA, from January to October this year, Rwanda received 5,101 returning citizens, including those who had previously been unable to return due to threats from armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), such as the FDLR, which had warned that returnees would be killed if they attempted to go home. The FDLR is a militia group formed by remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

The figures were disclosed on Tuesday, 12 November 2025, during a visit to the Nyarushishi Transit Centre, where officials met with recently returned Rwandans. Discussions during the visit focused on governance reforms, national opportunities, and the Ndi Umunyarwanda (“I am Rwandan”) programme.

The Mayor of Rusizi District, Phanuel Sindayiheba, welcomed the returnees and commended their decision to come back.

“Rwanda has chosen not to be held back by discrimination, poverty, or ignorance, but to pursue development and unity among Rwandans,” he said.

Marie Alice Kayumba Uwera, the Executive Director in Charge of National Unity and Community Resilience at MINUBUMWE, emphasised the importance of the Ndi Umunyarwanda programme in fostering a sense of national identity.

“Although you are returning late, it is better late than never. You are encouraged to work hard to make up for lost time,” she said, adding that some returnees had been misled into prioritising ethnic identity over their Rwandan roots.

Kayumba Uwera also urged returning women to encourage their husbands to come back. “Women have a strength we often do not realise. Many of you have already made the right choice to return, and you have inspired your husbands to follow,” she said.

Gonzage Karagire, Director of Refugee Programmes at MINEMA, said that receiving returning Rwandans is an ongoing effort.

“This year alone, over 5,000 Rwandans have come home. Currently, there are 592 people in this transit camp, including children and adults who recently returned,” he said.

Of the 592 returnees at Nyarushishi, 396 are children and 196 are adults. Among the adults, 160 are women and 36 are men.

Mushimiyimana Immaculée, who returned after 31 years in exile, recounted the challenges she faced and expressed her commitment to national unity.

“I only completed the first three grades, and I feel ashamed that at 32 years old I cannot read or write. I had to leave school when fighting broke out,” she said. She added that she intends to work with others to preserve unity and create opportunities for future generations.

November 13, 2025
Rwanda ready to implement its section of railway project linking East Africa

While most attention has focused on the railway linking Rwanda and Tanzania, plans also exist for connections with Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan under the Northern Corridor initiatives.

The project, expected to facilitate trade and travel, is particularly significant for Rwanda, a landlocked country heavily reliant on regional transport routes.

The planned route from Rusumo to Kigali will pass through the Dubai Ports area in Kicukiro and extend 18 kilometres further to the new Kigali International Airport in Bugesera.

Signed in March 2018, the 532-kilometre railway agreement has seen construction advance on the Tanzanian side. However, work on the Rwandan section remains on hold pending finalisation of cross-border agreements.

Emmanuel Nuwamanya, acting Head of Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Infrastructure, told discussions organised by the African Development Bank on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, that Rwanda’s feasibility studies are complete.

“The studies will guide the construction process. Now, it is a matter of seeing neighbouring countries begin their sections,” he said.

Rwanda plans to invest over $1.5 billion in its segment, while Tanzania, which hosts the larger portion, is expected to contribute more than $2.5 billion.

Officials note the railway could reduce transport costs by up to 40%, easing the movement of goods in and out of Rwanda. For traders, the project is especially significant, as 70% of Rwanda’s imports and exports pass through the port of Dar es Salaam.

The project, long anticipated for over 20 years, is expected to strengthen regional trade links and integrate Rwanda more fully into East Africa’s transport network.

November 13, 2025
AfDB to invest Frw 435 billion in Rwanda’s agriculture sector

The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, during a meeting between the multilateral development finance institution, the Government of Rwanda, and other development partners.

The meeting, held annually, serves as a platform to review all AfDB-funded projects in Rwanda, evaluating progress, identifying challenges, and discussing ways to improve implementation in future initiatives.

AfDB management revealed that over the past two years, the bank has invested $2.5 billion in 28 projects, mainly in infrastructure sectors such as water and sanitation, transport, and energy.

Aïssa Touré Sarr, AfDB’s Country Manager for Rwanda, said that 85% of these 28 projects have been successfully implemented.

“Of the projects we support, 34% are in water and sanitation, 30% in energy, and 16% in transport,” she stated.

Touré attributed these achievements to strong collaboration and partnership with the Government of Rwanda, which has enabled the bank to make a tangible contribution to the country’s development.

She added that the annual review meetings are a valuable opportunity to assess progress and strengthen implementation.

“These discussions allow us to evaluate the progress made in implementing our projects and to identify challenges so that we can continue contributing effectively to Rwanda’s development,” she said.

Touré further noted that in the past two years, the number of AfDB-supported projects in Rwanda increased from 26 to 28, while total investment rose from $1.5 billion to $2.5 billion.

She explained that one of the priority areas for upcoming investment is agriculture, following the Government of Rwanda’s request to focus on agro-processing and irrigation.

“Following the government’s request for increased investment in agriculture, we have earmarked $300 million to support irrigation and other agricultural development projects,” she said.

Emmanuel Nuwamanya, acting Head of Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Infrastructure, commended AfDB’s continued contribution to Rwanda’s development through its support for various projects.

“We appreciate AfDB’s ongoing partnership with the Government of Rwanda in implementing projects related to water and sanitation, transport, and energy, which are helping to improve the lives of citizens and drive national development,” Nuwamanya said.

AfDB began its operations in Rwanda in 1974. While most of its funding has traditionally been directed towards infrastructure, the bank has now announced its intention to increase investment in agriculture to further stimulate growth in the sector.

November 13, 2025
Rwanda calls for rethink of UN peacekeeping mandates amid liquidity crisis

Speaking before the Fourth Committee on Special Political and Decolonisation, Rwanda’s Military Advisor Col. Deo Mutabazi expressed concern that peacekeeping missions are being forced to “achieve less with less” as the UN grapples with a liquidity crisis.

“We are holding this debate when peacekeeping missions are facing a substantial liquidity crisis that has led to major downsizing, with the risk of losing the hard-earned gains on the ground,” Col. Mutabazi said, describing recent percentage cuts to missions as “unfair and non-transparent.”

Rwanda, which currently ranks among the world’s top contributors to UN peace operations, continues to play a vital role in global peacekeeping efforts. According to the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations, as of September 2025, Rwanda was the second-largest troop-contributing country with 5,885 personnel, following Nepal with 6,031. Other leading contributors include Bangladesh (5,649), India (5,206), and Indonesia (2,731).

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Col. Mutabazi emphasised that the UN should place greater focus on addressing the root causes of conflict rather than relying heavily on military responses. He noted that sustainable peace depends on tackling governance challenges, corruption, discrimination, and poverty, issues that often fuel instability.

“No amount of capabilities, technologies, and even training to effectively protect civilians than investing in creating conducive conditions for peace through political dialogue for conflict resolution, an area that UN peacekeeping has invested less in,” he stressed.

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The Rwandan representative criticised what he termed “unrealistic mandates”, which he said often undermine trust between peacekeeping missions and host nations. He called for a review of the penholdership system, warning that current practices risk turning mission mandates into “Christmas trees” that serve interests beyond those of the host country.

“It is time to rethink the penholdership that has led to mandates serving other interests than the host nation’s,” he said, adding that peacekeeping should not pursue military solutions to inherently political problems.

Col. Mutabazi also backed UN Security Council Resolution 2719, which supports stronger partnerships between the UN and regional forces in peace enforcement operations.

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Rwanda further called for peacekeeping mandates to undergo legal scrutiny before approval to ensure that missions do not inadvertently associate with sanctioned groups.

“Maintaining legal clarity is essential to uphold both the legitimacy and effectiveness of UN peacekeeping,” Col. Mutabazi stated.

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Addressing the challenge of operating with reduced resources, Rwanda proposed community engagement initiatives as a cost-effective way to enhance civilian protection. The approach includes local partnerships on health, sanitation, environmental protection, and education.

According to Col. Mutabazi, such initiatives “build trust between peacekeepers, local leaders and communities,” while countering misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech that often fuel tensions in conflict zones.

Concluding his remarks, Col. Mutabazi reaffirmed Rwanda’s enduring commitment to peacekeeping and paid tribute to those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of global stability.

“Rwanda remains dedicated to supporting peace efforts and honours the brave peacekeepers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the quest for peace and security,” he said.

November 13, 2025