In an advisory issued on Tuesday, September 2, MINICOM encouraged businesses to view the championship as an opportunity to boost trade and deliver high-quality services to participants, visitors, and cycling fans from around the world.
“Your active participation and preparedness are essential to the success of this world-class event,” the advisory reads in part.
Businesses were advised to stock up goods in advance to avoid disruptions during temporary road closures, and to schedule deliveries during night hours when roads will be open. Truck drivers will also be facilitated during night operations, the ministry added.
The 2025 championship will mark the first time the prestigious global cycling event is held in Africa, positioning Rwanda as a hub for international sporting activities and sports tourism.
To ensure smooth logistics, the government has announced temporary road closures along designated race routes during specific hours. Alternative and detour routes will be clearly marked in coordination with traffic authorities. Fan Zones will also be set up across Kigali, allowing residents and visitors to follow the action up close.
Further measures include the closure of schools across Kigali City during the competition, coordinated by the Ministry of Education, and a shift to remote work for public servants and private institutions where possible. Essential services will continue uninterrupted.
The UCI Road World Championships is one of cycling’s most prestigious annual competitions, bringing together national teams from across the globe under the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). First held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1921, the championship most recently took place in Zürich, Switzerland, in 2024.
Rwanda’s edition is expected to attract a large influx of athletes, delegations, and fans, alongside visitors keen to explore the country’s tourism offerings. Authorities say the event is not only a milestone for sports but also an opportunity for local businesses to showcase Rwanda’s hospitality and entrepreneurial spirit.
The deal, signed with Global Tungsten and Powders (GTP), part of the Plansee Group in Pennsylvania, and Trinity’s offtake partner Traxys, marks a major step in establishing a reliable supply of high-grade tungsten from the Great Lakes region of Africa to the U.S. market.
GTP, with over a century of experience, is one of the world’s largest tungsten processors, producing tungsten and tungsten carbide powders as well as heavy alloy powders for the aerospace and defence industries.
Shawn McCormick, Chairman of Trinity Metals, highlighted the significance of the agreement for both the company and the U.S. market.
“As the largest producer of tungsten on the continent, we are very pleased to be working with both Traxys and America’s largest tungsten refiner, GTP, on this historic agreement, which marks the first time that a consistent and reliable supply of this high-grade mineral from the Great Lakes region of Africa will flow to the United States.”
Eric Rowe, Plansee Group Director of Global Raw Materials, added that the agreement strengthens American national security by adding responsibly produced tungsten to the U.S. industrial base.
“We are very pleased to be partnering with Trinity Metals, which has strong support from both the United States and Rwandan governments,” he remarked.
Traxys CEO Mark Kristoff described the partnership as a model of aligned corporate values and long-term commitment.
Trinity Metals, established in 2022 through the merger of the Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine, Rutongo Tin Mine, and Musha Tin and Tantalum Mine, is Rwanda’s largest producer of these three critical minerals.
The latest agreement follows a related development in May 2025, when Trinity Metals signed a letter of intent with U.S.-based metals firm Nathan Trotter to export Rwandan tin to the United States for the first time under this framework.
The signing took place at the U.S. Department of State and was witnessed by Kim Harrington, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Energy Resources.
The initiative aims to develop a sustainable, transparent supply chain for Rwandan tin, classified by the U.S. as a critical mineral, in support of national security and economic objectives.
These agreements come amid growing economic cooperation between Rwanda and the United States, reinforced by Rwanda’s recent engagements in [regional partnerships->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/inside-the-rwanda-drc-economic-integration-framework] with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The deals signal the U.S’ increasing interest in securing strategic mineral inputs from Africa to support domestic manufacturing in sectors ranging from electronics to electric vehicle batteries.
The closure, which followed customer complaints about poor service and negligence during a wedding ceremony in early July, surprised many, who questioned how a hotel that had been in operation for years could continue without proper authorisation.
At the time of the announcement, RDB warned that if the hotel continued operating beyond July 22, 2025, it would be in violation of national laws, a breach that could attract heavy penalties. The agency further explained that reopening would only be considered once the hotel had fulfilled all requirements to obtain an operating license in the tourism sector and complied fully with the relevant laws.
The revelation that such a prominent establishment lacked a valid operating license shocked the public, given that the hotel was well-known and had been welcoming guests for some time.
Speaking to IGIHE, Irène Murerwa, Chief Tourism Officer at RDB, explained that the situation was not unusual, pointing out that Rwanda’s 2014 Tourism Law allows investors to begin their projects while still working toward fulfilling conditions for an operating license, depending on the type of investment.
She clarified that beginning operations does not automatically mean an establishment is licensed in the tourism sector.
“In this case, the issue is not complicated. Registering an investment is simple and can be done online within six hours. But the key question is: what type of investment is it? A hotel, a restaurant, a nightclub, or apartments? The license granted depends on the category, and in their case, they were operating without ever applying for the proper license,” Murerwa said.
She added that although RDB was aware of the hotel’s investment activities, the owners had not completed all requirements needed to secure a tourism license.
“Anyone could see their doors open and assume they were licensed. Of course, RDB knew about them, just as we know many investors. We don’t close businesses the moment they open. We first conduct visits, hold discussions, and agree on timelines. Some investors fulfil requirements quickly, while others encounter delays. That was the case here,” she explained.
According to Murerwa, after an establishment begins operations, RDB reviews whether it meets the standards required for its specific category of tourism business.
“When challenges are communicated, we listen and allow time to address them, because our role is both regulatory and developmental. But once the grace period expires and compliance is still lacking, then closure becomes necessary,” she said.
Murerwa confirmed that Château le Marara had been inspected several times and was repeatedly reminded of what it needed to comply with. However, despite discussions, the hotel continued to report difficulties in meeting the legal requirements.
“We visited them and held discussions. But at some point, it became clear they were not treating the requirements with the seriousness of legal obligations. People wondered how such a well-known hotel, recognised by the community and local authorities, could lack RDB approval. The truth is that while they had the right to invest, they did not have the license to operate in the tourism sector,” she said.
Currently, investors registering in the tourism industry are required to fulfil up to 22 conditions, in addition to specific requirements depending on the category of business. These include registering the investment, employing qualified staff, and adhering to hygiene, safety, and environmental standards, among others.
While she did not disclose which specific requirements Château le Marara had failed to meet, Murerwa emphasised that any failure to comply constitutes a violation of the law.
“In tourism, there are many conditions to meet. If out of more than 20, you have fulfilled only five, you are still violating the law. While much attention is on Château le Marara, many other establishments have not met all conditions, and these cases must equally be reported to the authorities,” she concluded.
According to RDB officials, an establishment may be suspended for several reasons, such as employing workers without contracts—which is prohibited by law—or when clients suffer health complications due to non-compliance with required standards.
By law, RDB may grant an establishment a grace period during which it continues to operate while working to meet the required conditions. However, if follow-up inspections reveal ongoing non-compliance and no valid justification is provided, the institution risks suspension.
Murerwa explained: “There are instances where, for example, an employee mistreats a guest. That alone does not immediately warrant closure. In such cases, we conduct visits, issue warnings, and give time for correction. But if a client suffers health complications because the establishment failed to meet hygiene or safety requirements, then it becomes a serious matter, and closure is enforced immediately.”
She emphasised that closure is not necessarily permanent. Once the owner fixes the violations and meets all required conditions, they may request reopening. The application is reviewed through an inspection by a joint team from RDB, the Police, and other relevant agencies. If the team confirms compliance, the establishment is granted a license to resume operations.
Currently, a tourism operating license issued by RDB costs 80,000 Rwandan francs, although the fee may change in the future as part of an ongoing legal review process.
Château le Marara is located in Karongi District, on the shores of Lake Kivu.
RDB clarifies the reasons behind the closure of Château le Marara.
A month has now passed since Château le Marara was ordered to close its doors
The lender confirmed it has secured ISO/IEC 27001:2022 for information security management and ISO 22301:2019 for business continuity management systems. The certifications were awarded by MSECB, an accredited global certification body operating under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
By attaining both standards, BRD becomes one of the few financial institutions in the region to meet such stringent global requirements, positioning itself as a leader in operational resilience and data protection.
For clients, the certifications translate into enhanced information security, continuity of services even in the face of disruptions, and increased confidence in the bank’s reliability.
“Our clients entrust us with what matters most—their financial information and access to essential services. These certifications confirm that BRD meets international standards for information security and service reliability,” said Kampeta Sayinzoga, the bank’s chief executive officer, in a recent statement.
“Clients can be assured that we are not only safeguarding their information but also strengthening the resilience of our systems so they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”
Securing the certifications followed months of preparation that included capacity building and a risk assessment of the bank’s systems, policies and procedures to ensure full compliance with international standards.
BRD described the achievement as a milestone in its ongoing digital transformation. With financial institutions across Africa increasingly adopting digital platforms and financial technologies, the bank says the recognition sets a benchmark for cybersecurity and service continuity in the region.
Founded in 1967, BRD has been central to Rwanda’s development financing, supporting projects in manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, affordable housing and green finance. It continues to play a key role in driving the country’s long-term socio-economic transformation.
Data released on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, shows that between August 11 and 15, the country exported 8,182 metric tonnes of agricultural and animal products, with coffee leading the charge.
Coffee exports generated $4.27 million (Frw 6.18 billion) from 561 metric tonnes, cementing its role as Rwanda’s flagship crop. Tea followed closely with revenues of $1.51 million (Frw 2.18 billion), while diversified agricultural products – including cereals, roots and pulses – brought in $3.45 million (Frw 4.99 billion).
Other key earners during the week included vegetables ($403,772 / Frw 584 million), mainly exported to cross-border countries, India, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States and France. Fruits contributed $276,278 / Frw 400 million, with cross-border countries and the UAE emerging as the main markets.
Animal products generated $580,840 / Frw 840 million, largely destined for neighbouring countries. Flowers added $102,915 / Frw 149 million, shipped primarily to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
“Rwanda doesn’t just export commodities; we export quality,” the agency wrote in a post on X.
Rwanda’s agricultural sector has seen substantial growth in exports over the years, with total revenue reaching $3.2 billion (over Frw 4.6 trillion) between 2020 and 2024, according to figures released last year by NAEB.
By the end of June 2025, the bank’s total assets had risen to Frw 916 billion, reflecting a 12% increase since December 2024. Its loan portfolio expanded by 24% to reach Frw 440 billion.
Almost half of these loans were new, issued mainly through branches across the country, with a large portion allocated to first-time clients, demonstrating the growing confidence customers place in the bank.
Customer deposits also registered growth, rising 12% to Frw 737.7 billion by June 2025. This was largely attributed to branch network expansion and service improvement initiatives.
The bank reported effective cost management, with reduced cost-to-income ratio of 45%.
A substantial share of this spending went toward employee-focused programs, which increased by 27%, reflecting investment in staff training, welfare, and professional development.
According to the bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Benjamin Mutimura, the strong performance was the result of customer trust and the bank’s continued focus on market leadership, strategic partnerships, and a customer-first approach. He stressed that these priorities had consistently delivered positive results.
In addition to financial growth, the bank underscored its broader social contribution, noting that its initiatives had positively impacted the lives of more than 200,000 Rwandans.
Management emphasized that this progress reflects a commitment to inclusive development and shared prosperity, made possible through strong partnerships, employee dedication, and client loyalty. Looking ahead, the bank reaffirmed its focus on innovation, operational efficiency, and customer-centered growth.
Established in 1963 under the name Banque Commerciale du Rwanda (BCR), I&M Bank Rwanda is the country’s oldest commercial bank. It has been listed on the Rwanda Stock Exchange since March 2017.
On August 15, 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources convened agricultural exporters to align with government institutions and private players, including banks, on how to tackle bottlenecks and accelerate this push.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, the drive will be implemented under the Fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5), which requires an estimated Frw 144 billion, or 2.3% of its total budget.
{{Agribusiness hubs lead the way
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Minister of Agriculture Dr Cyubahiro Mark Bagabe highlighted the Gabiro Agribusiness Hub, a modern 5,600-hectare irrigation zone drawing water from the Akagera River into a 120,000 m³ reservoir. The government has already invested over $118 million (Frw 170 billion) in the site, where investors lease land at $375 per hectare per year.
Seven investors are currently operational, with pledged investments surpassing Frw 53 billion. The hub’s first phase created 6,000 jobs, while the second phase will expand it to 15,600 hectares across Nyagatare and Gatsibo, complete with advanced irrigation and improved road infrastructure.
{{Scaling smallholder farming
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Another key initiative is the Food Basket Sites (FoBaSi) programme, designed to consolidate fragmented small plots into productive zones of about five hectares each. Over 495,000 hectares have already been identified out of a targeted 600,000 hectares.
Farmers in these sites will receive early access to fertilisers, quality seeds, and the support of permanent agronomists. The scheme begins in Season A of 2026 (September–December 2025) and is expected to drive significant yield increases, covering nearly half of Rwanda’s cultivated land.
The government projects significant growth in export earnings from high-value crops over the next five years. Chilli exports are expected to increase eightfold, moving from $6 million to $48 million by 2028/29, largely driven by expanding markets in Asia, particularly China and India.
Coffee earnings are forecast to rise from $78.7 million to $115.5 million, an increase of 46.8%, supported by the replacement of ageing trees and expansion of plantations. Tea is also set to record substantial gains, with export revenues projected to grow from $107.7 million to $164.4 million, representing a 52.6% increase.
{{PSTA5 to transform the sector
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PSTA5, a five-year programme, will channel $5.4 billion into modernising agriculture, promoting climate-smart technologies, reducing post-harvest losses, and strengthening value chains. The initiative is expected to create 644,000 jobs, up from 400,000 currently sustained in the sector.
“We are focusing on transforming agriculture into a business rather than subsistence farming,” Dr Bagabe said, noting that farmers’ performance will determine whether they retain or lose access to consolidated farming sites.
According to Coursera, a leading global online learning platform, several in-demand skills span multiple industries and can be developed entirely online from anywhere in the world.
The following list presents the top 10 high-income skills to focus on in 2025, starting with the most sought-after.
{{1. Generative AI
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Generative AI is currently one of the fastest-growing and most valuable skills in the tech world. It involves working with AI models that can generate content—such as text, images, or even code—opening vast possibilities in creative industries, automation, and problem-solving.
Businesses worldwide are eager to hire professionals who can use AI tools effectively to improve efficiency and innovate new products.
Learning generative AI means understanding the fundamentals of machine learning, prompt engineering, and the practical application of AI frameworks. As AI technologies continue to advance, this skill is projected to offer some of the highest salaries and job growth opportunities. From creating AI-driven chatbots to automating complex workflows, generative AI experts have become crucial in modern enterprises.
“A growing number of businesses already rely on AI tools to increase their productivity, with even more businesses interested in finding ways to integrate AI into their workstream, business model, products, or services,” Coursera says in a blog post.
{{2. Data Analysis
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Data analysis is the process of examining, cleaning, and interpreting data to extract useful insights that drive informed business decisions. This skill is in demand across virtually every industry, from finance and healthcare to marketing and manufacturing. Companies increasingly rely on data-driven strategies, making skilled data analysts indispensable.
Mastering data analysis involves learning tools such as Excel, SQL, Python, and data visualisation platforms. Analysts transform raw data into meaningful stories that help leaders understand trends, forecast outcomes, and optimise operations. The ability to work with large datasets and provide actionable recommendations is a powerful asset.
{{3. Data Visualization
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Data visualisation complements data analysis by turning complex data into visual formats—like charts, graphs, and dashboards—that make information accessible and easy to understand. This skill helps decision-makers grasp insights quickly and supports clearer communication within organisations.
Effective data visualisation requires knowledge of tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or programming languages like Python and R to create compelling, interactive visuals. Beyond technical skills, good visualisation involves storytelling and design principles to highlight important trends and findings.
{{4. Cybersecurity
}}
Cybersecurity professionals protect organisations from cyber threats, data breaches, and attacks that can cause significant financial and reputational damage. As cybercrime grows in scale and complexity, the demand for experts who can secure networks, systems, and sensitive data has never been higher.
This skill requires knowledge of security protocols, ethical hacking, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Cybersecurity specialists implement defences, monitor threats, and respond to incidents to ensure the safety of digital assets. Their work is critical to maintaining trust in today’s interconnected world.
{{5. Software Engineering
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Software engineering involves designing, building, testing, and maintaining software applications that power everything from mobile apps to enterprise systems. This skill is the backbone of the digital economy and is highly compensated due to the complexity and impact of the work.
Professionals in this field must understand programming languages, software development methodologies, version control, and testing techniques. Software engineers work closely with other teams to deliver reliable, efficient, and scalable solutions tailored to business needs.
{{6. Web Development
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Web development is the process of creating websites and web applications that are functional, visually appealing, and user-friendly. It combines both front-end design (what users see) and back-end programming (how things work behind the scenes).
This skill requires proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Angular for front-end development, as well as knowledge of server-side languages and databases for back-end work. Web developers ensure that websites perform well across devices and meet accessibility standards.
{{7. Cloud Computing
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Cloud computing enables businesses to store and access data and applications over the internet rather than on local servers. This technology supports flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, making cloud specialists essential for modern IT infrastructure.
Experts in cloud computing manage cloud environments like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). They ensure that systems are secure, reliable, and optimised for performance, often working in roles such as cloud architect, engineer, or administrator.
{{8. DevOps
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DevOps is a set of practices that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to shorten development cycles and improve deployment quality. This skill fosters collaboration between teams and automates workflows, enabling faster and more reliable software releases.
DevOps professionals work with tools like Docker, Kubernetes, Jenkins, and CI/CD pipelines to automate testing, integration, and deployment processes. They help organisations adopt agile practices and maintain stable, scalable infrastructure.
{{9. UX Design
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User Experience (UX) Design focuses on enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and enjoyment of digital products such as websites and apps. UX designers conduct research, create wireframes, and test prototypes to optimise user interactions.
This skill requires a blend of empathy, creativity, and technical know-how, including knowledge of design tools like Figma or Adobe XD. UX designers ensure products meet user needs and business goals harmoniously.
{{10. Project Management}}
Project management is the art and science of leading teams to complete projects on time, within scope, and within budget. Effective project managers coordinate resources, manage risks, and communicate clearly to ensure successful outcomes.
This skill spans industries and requires proficiency in planning methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall, along with tools like Microsoft Project or Jira. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and organisational abilities are essential.
Mastering any of these top 10 high-income skills in 2025 can help you boost your earning potential, secure remote work opportunities, and future-proof your career. As Coursera shows, the most successful professionals combine technical expertise with practical experience and continuous learning.
This growth was driven by strong performance in data services and Mobile Money (MoMo). Additionally, the company marked a historic milestone with the commercial launch of 5G, a groundbreaking achievement that accelerates Rwanda’s digital transformation.
MTN Rwanda’s service revenue for the first half of 2025 grew by 13.1% to Frw 137.4 billion. Data revenue increased by 10.1%, reaching Frw 23.3 billion, while MoMo revenue surged by 29.1% to Frw 68.6 billion, reflecting the growing adoption of digital financial services.
“MoMo Rwanda continues to deepen its role in bridging the digital and financial inclusion gap across Rwanda,” said Chantal Kagame, CEO of MoMo Rwanda. “We’ve achieved robust growth in active users and merchant adoption, reflecting the platform’s trustworthiness and relevance in everyday life.”
Total subscribers increased by 3.5%, reaching 7.8 million, while active MoMo users grew by 9.1% to 5.6 million, underscoring MTN Rwanda’s leadership in digital services.
The company also saw a significant increase in its EBITDA, which rose by 43.7% to Frw 56.1 billion, with the EBITDA margin improving by 9.1 percentage points. Profit After Tax (PAT) rebounded to Frw 6.3 billion, recovering from a loss in the previous year.
“We are pleased to present our half-year results, showcasing strong growth across our business units,” said Dunstan Ayodele Stober, MTN Rwanda’s Ag. Chief Finance Officer. “EBITDA demonstrated a solid growth performance of 43.7%, achieving a commendable EBITDA margin of 40.4%. This reflects the strong execution of our cost transformation program and improved quality of our earnings.”
In June 2025, MTN Rwanda became the first telecom operator to commercially launch 5G in the country. This achievement is a significant step toward realizing Rwanda’s Vision 2050, enhancing digital service delivery across urban and rural communities.
With the successful launch of 5G, accelerated 4G migration, and relentless focus on cost efficiencies, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Rwanda Ali Monzer says the telecom is positioning itself to lead the market in both relevance and resilience.
“Our strategy is clear and proven: bold investment in future-ready infrastructure, precision in execution, and putting customers at the core of every decision we make. As CEO, I remain confident in our ability to sustain this momentum, unlock new growth frontiers, and deliver meaningful, consistent returns for our shareholders,” he states.
MTN Rwanda’s community investments were also highlighted during the period, with the company’s 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign making an impact on local communities. MTN Rwanda provided 100 smartphones to Community Health Workers on Bugarura Island and distributed 100 solar kits to rural communities, ensuring connectivity for remote areas.
With continued investments in network infrastructure and digital services, MTN Rwanda is well-positioned to maintain strong performance in the second half of 2025.
The company’s focus on cost management, operational efficiency, and future-proofing its network is expected to drive sustained growth, ensuring long-term value for its shareholders and stakeholders.
The event brings together modern technology, innovative solutions, and traditional crafts, offering visitors a comprehensive view of Rwanda’s evolving business landscape.
This year’s exhibition spans a wide range of industries, including telecommunications and IT, public institutions, construction, agriculture, electronics, petroleum, machinery, textiles, tourism, handicrafts, furniture, mining, banking, food and beverages, and more.
IGIHE visited the expo to speak with some of the exhibitors and learn about their products and experiences.
Many exhibitors share a common goal: to provide quality products while using the expo as a platform to reach new customers. Whether offering practical tools, health products, or home goods inspired by local culture, they emphasize the importance of understanding customer needs and adapting to the market.
Helen Uwimbabazi, a five-year participant in the expo, showcased Indian herbal products such as the Shilajit blood stone—believed to aid in detoxification—and hair oil designed to promote growth and shine. She noted that the expo has been instrumental in expanding her customer base and boosting sales, particularly during promotions like her current 25% discount.
Another exhibitor, Helally Mucyo, presented products sourced from Egypt and Dubai, including cotton toys, sofa covers, mosquito nets, and bed linens made of 100% cotton. She advised new entrepreneurs to focus on product quality, team selection, and understanding market demands. The expo’s diverse audience, she said, allows her to connect with both new and returning customers.
“Confidence in your product is key! Choose reliable workers and deeply understand how the market works to succeed in business,” she said.
From Uganda, Denis Mugabe showcased a multi-function hose designed for car washing and gardening, available in various lengths.
Together, these businesses demonstrate resilience and dedication. Many have built strong relationships with customers through consistent quality, while the expo provides them with exposure to wider, often international, markets.
Promotional offers and live demonstrations help attract buyers, with some exhibitors reporting significantly higher daily sales at the expo compared to regular retail outlets.
Rwanda’s supportive business environment, coupled with regional trade opportunities, continues to encourage new entrepreneurs to explore market potential and grow their ventures.
The expo is organised by the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The three-week event is scheduled to close on August 17, 2025.
Watch the video below for more highlights from Rwanda Expo 2025.
