The partnership, formalised through an agreement with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), aims to attract hundreds of millions of dollars in new private foreign investment over the coming years by connecting international investors with opportunities across Rwanda.
In a joint statement, the partners said RFO will leverage its network of high-net-worth individuals, families and private investors across Asia and Africa to explore investment opportunities in sectors including aviation, hospitality, tourism, entertainment, real estate, infrastructure and supporting services.
The collaboration follows Rwanda’s 10-year agreement with Formula 1 to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, presented by Visit Rwanda, from the early 2030s. The race will take place at a purpose-built circuit planned near the new Kigali International Airport in Bugesera District.
Rwanda hopes to use the event to attract investment beyond motorsport, with opportunities expected to extend to businesses and infrastructure supporting tourism, entertainment and other economic activities.
Jean-Guy Afrika, Chief Executive Officer of RDB, said the partnership would support efforts to expand private sector participation in projects associated with the country’s Formula 1 ambitions.
“Formula 1 is a catalyst for a much broader investment ambition for Rwanda. Private sector participation is central to our approach, with opportunities extending well beyond the circuit into aviation, hospitality, tourism, entertainment, real estate and services,” he said.
Afrika added that the partnership would help attract investors interested in establishing businesses, creating jobs and generating long-term economic value beyond the race weekend.
Chi Man Kwan, Group Chief Executive Officer of Raffles Family Office, said the collaboration would give the firm’s clients a channel to explore Rwanda’s investment opportunities, particularly in sport, entertainment and infrastructure.
He said the two organisations would combine RFO’s international investor network with RDB’s institutional support and project pipeline to attract long-term capital.
Investment opportunities will span Bugesera, Kigali, Musanze and other parts of the country, with Airport City among the developments identified for potential investment.
The planned Formula 1 circuit is part of a broader ambition to establish Bugesera as a destination for sport, entertainment and leisure activities. Beyond racing, the venue is expected to accommodate concerts, exhibitions and other events throughout the year.
RFO established a representative office in Kigali earlier in 2026, strengthening its presence in Rwanda and engagement with investment opportunities across Africa.
The firm has begun engaging prospective investors and plans to organise visits to Rwanda to explore potential projects and meet prospective partners.
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