Gunfire was reported near the presidential palace and the offices of the electoral commission in the capital, Bissau, as tensions escalated following the first round of general elections held over the weekend. Both President Embalo and opposition candidate Fernando Dias had claimed victory, even as the official results were yet to be announced.
In an interview with French outlet Jeune Afrique, Embalo confirmed he was arrested around noon along with his Interior Minister Botche Cande, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Gen. Biague Na Ntan, and his deputy Gen. Mamadou Toure. He described the event as a “coup” led by the commander of the land forces, adding that no violence was used against him.
Following the arrests, a group of army officers addressed the nation on state television, announcing the formation of “The High Military Command for the Restoration of Order.” The officers said they would remain in charge of the West African nation until further notice, citing the need to clarify the situation before returning to constitutional order.
Troops from the presidential guard and an elite gendarmerie unit established checkpoints in Bissau, while borders and airspace were temporarily closed. General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, urged citizens to “remain calm,” emphasising that the command was composed of all branches of the armed forces.
Fernando Dias, meanwhile, called on the military to remain neutral and allow the electoral process to continue. “We are not asking for anything,” he told reporters, stating he would wait for the official results, which were expected on Thursday.
Guinea-Bissau, a former Portuguese colony with a population of about 2.2 million, has a long history of political instability. Since independence in 1974, the country has witnessed at least four successful coups and numerous attempted ones.
President Embalo, a former army chief, took office in 2020 after winning the 2019 presidential election, becoming the first president elected without the backing of the dominant PAIGC party.
The country had largely peaceful elections on Sunday, with approximately 65% voter turnout, but the political contest was marred by disputes and the barring of some opposition figures. Several senior military officers were arrested in late October over an alleged coup plot.
With this latest upheaval, Guinea-Bissau joins other West African nations, including Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, currently under military rule.
The event brought together representatives from both the public and private sectors, including major banks, insurers, and national agencies such as Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), BPR Bank, I&M Bank, BK Insurance, REG, and RURA, among others.
Held at Ubumwe Grande Hotel, the forum focused on strengthening cyber resilience across Rwanda’s rapidly digitising economy. Discussions emphasised the importance of preparedness, clean data recovery, and proactive security approaches as cyber threats continue to evolve globally.
Sachin Jadhav, Country Lead for Computech Rwanda, highlighted the urgency of building stronger institutional cyber resilience at a time when digital threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated. He noted that the event was designed to deepen organisations’ understanding of what true resilience entails, beyond basic security measures and into practical preparedness.
“In today’s world of evolving cyber threats, it’s very important to educate our customers on what to do in case a cyber-attack occurs. How do you back up your data? How do you restore it quickly and cleanly?” he said.
The company plans to host more engagements in the coming months to help clients navigate the fast-changing technology landscape.
“This is something Computech Rwanda will continue doing, educating customers about the different cybersecurity and resilience solutions available and demonstrating how we can help them understand, implement, and support these solutions,” Jadhav added.
Building on Computech’s emphasis on practical preparedness, Commvault, the event’s lead technology partner, demonstrated its cutting-edge cyber resilience solutions. These included cleanroom environments, immutable backups, rapid recovery tools, and automated threat detection systems, showing why modern organisations need multi-layered recovery strategies to counter sophisticated ransomware attacks.
Noel Cynthia Anyango, Marketing Manager for East Africa at Computech, said the forum was part of a broader effort to push organisations to move from reactive to proactive approaches.
“Throughout 2025, we’ve seen organisations across the region struggle with cyber threats. Many are still reactive, waiting for an attack to happen before taking action. Our message is clear: organisations don’t have to wait until a threat is at their door to become immutable and resilient,” she said.
Anyango further reaffirmed Computech’s plan to deepen its engagement with Rwandan institutions.
“Our target is to host quarterly engagements here in Rwanda. For us, it’s not just about doing business, it’s about sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving real impact.”
The event also highlighted Rwanda’s growing importance as a strategic technology market. Joseph Kinyua, Regional Director at Tech First Gulf, said Rwanda’s digital transformation has made it an attractive destination for technology vendors and distributors.
“People used to think Rwanda was small, but while they were looking the other way, it has grown into a very significant and strategic market,” he noted.
Kinyua also revealed plans for TFG to establish a permanent office in Kigali.
“We’re actively working on opening a TFG office in Rwanda by Q1 2026, with local staff, local billing, and local warehousing. You’ll be seeing a lot more of TFG here in the coming months and years,” he said.
On the customer engagement side, Briceline Uwonkunda, Client-Focused Account Manager at Computech, said many organisations still underestimate the impact of ransomware and data breaches.
“Many people feel that cyber attacks won’t reach us, but the reality is that ransomware and other threats are global; they don’t respect borders,” she said.
She added that while Rwanda has not seen widespread public incidents, the risk remains significant.
“You can never say a country or an organisation is 100% safe. The more we digitise, the more attractive we become as a target. That’s why institutions must prepare now, not later.”
Computech is a premier technology partner in Africa that has been operating for nearly four decades. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the company has a significant regional footprint, with offices across five countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia.
The company provides comprehensive, end-to-end IT services, including cloud, network infrastructure, enterprise software, and cybersecurity solutions. Computech’s ability to deliver advanced solutions is backed by strategic partnerships with global technology leaders such as Commvault, as well as Oracle, Cisco, Dell, HPE, Microsoft, Huawei, Symantec, Juniper, and NetApp, allowing them to assist major institutions across the public and private sectors in building robust, proactive cyber resilience.
The announcement came during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Devki Mega Steel Project in Tororo District, Uganda, on November 23, attended by Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. Both leaders confirmed plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Kenya to Uganda and onward to Rwanda, and to co-own the Mombasa-Kampala oil pipeline.
“In January, we will be launching the extension of the SGR from Naivasha to Malaba, then to Kampala, and onwards to the Democratic Republic of Congo, passing through Rwanda. This project is aimed at improving transport and logistics across the region to enhance competitiveness,” President Ruto said.
He also confirmed progress on the pipeline: “Joint investment of the pipeline from Eldoret through Kampala to the border with DRC and Rwanda is in an advanced stage. The governments of Kenya and Uganda have given approval to co-invest in extending this pipeline so it can serve East Africa as a jointly owned facility.”
Kenya is divesting around 60 percent of the pipeline’s ownership to allow Uganda, Rwanda, and private investors to participate.
“As the governments and regional investors co-invest in the Kenya Pipeline Company, I encourage citizens of our region to equally participate. Shares will be made available to public entities, but more importantly, to citizens of our region,” Ruto added.
President Museveni praised the initiative, emphasising its broader impact on regional trade and security.
“These roads and transport systems are currently inefficient. We need to rationalise them. Fuel will go through the pipeline, while cargo and passengers will use the railway. This will allow us to co-invest up to the Congo border and ensure the secure transport of resources,” Museveni said.
Rwanda has already completed feasibility studies for the railway extension through its territory, with government officials confirming readiness to implement the project once the neighbouring countries finalise their sections.
“The studies will guide the construction process. Now, it is a matter of seeing neighbouring countries begin their sections,” Emmanuel Nuwamanya, acting Head of Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Infrastructure, told a forum organised by the African Development Bank on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Preparations for Uganda’s section of the SGR from Malaba to Kampala have already begun, with Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi conducting geotechnical surveys along the 273-kilometre corridor. Most of the land has been acquired, ending nearly two decades of delays.
The projects, which include upgrading Northern Corridor roads and constructing dual carriageways linking key border towns, are expected to reduce transport costs, boost regional trade, generate thousands of jobs, and strengthen integration across East Africa, including Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Capital Market Issuer Roadshows’ closing ceremony at Kigali Serena Hotel, Rwabukumba said the initiatives aim to deepen private sector participation, expand access to long-term finance, and support sustainable investment across Rwanda and the continent.
“We have received the necessary approvals to allow hard-currency denominated instruments in our market. Soon, companies will be able to raise financing in dollars or other currencies, and investors will be able to invest in these instruments,” said Rwabukumba, who was appointed president of the continental stock exchange body in April 2024.
The Green Finance Window will provide a platform for companies and investors involved in environmentally sustainable projects to raise capital efficiently, while the Pan-Africa ESG Awards will recognise outstanding corporate and individual performance in environmental, social, and governance practices across the continent.
“The market is ready for these instruments,” Rwabukumba said, noting that RSE has already raised more than Rwf 70 billion through sustainability-linked and green bonds, reflecting strong investor interest in sustainable finance.
The ASEA conference, scheduled for November 26-28 at the Kigali Convention Centre, will convene securities exchanges, regulators, investors, and financial service providers from across Africa and the globe. This year’s theme is “Adapting to Global Market Shifts: Strategies for Resilience and Growth.”
Rwabukumba highlighted the broader context for these developments, noting that African capital markets remain underutilised, with low company listings and liquidity levels.
“Across the continent, excluding South Africa, the average number of new listings per market is less than one per year,” he said. “We must foster a culture of equity investment and local ownership to mobilise savings and drive sustainable growth.”
He added that the conference will serve as a platform for dialogue on critical issues, including SME financing, technological innovation in markets, and sustainability-linked finance. Speakers from countries such as Jamaica will share experiences on leveraging capital markets to support SMEs and cultivate an equity culture.
Capital Markets Authority (CMA) CEO Thapelo Tsheole said the ASEA conference will also spotlight Rwanda’s rapid market growth and the expanding ecosystem of licensed entities.
“The conference provides a unique opportunity to showcase Rwanda’s capital market developments, including record fundraising, strong turnover, green finance initiatives, and new ESG recognition programs,” Tsheole said.
Established in 1993, ASEA represents more than 30 securities exchanges across Africa, providing a platform for cooperation, policy development, and knowledge sharing. The Kigali conference will focus on strategies for resilience and growth as African markets navigate global economic shifts.
Led by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in partnership with the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), the Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd, and the Private Sector Federation (PSF), the initiative engaged over 700 enterprises across all four provinces and Kigali. Participants included SMEs, cooperatives, corporates and prospective issuers seeking guidance on raising equity and debt capital through formal markets.
CMA Chief Executive Officer, Thapelo Tsheole, said the nationwide effort successfully brought financial market opportunities closer to businesses that traditionally operated outside the capital.
“We set out to bring capital market opportunities to every part of Rwanda, and we achieved that. This effort represents the beginning of a wider strategy to extend financial participation and stimulate enterprise development through local markets,” he said.
Private Sector Federation CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, noted that the capital market provides patient, partnership-oriented capital that can accelerate business expansion and reduce overreliance on collateral-based loans. He highlighted financing instruments such as corporate bonds, commercial paper, stock exchange listings and real estate investment trusts as tools that enable companies to diversify their capital base and scale sustainably.
Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd CEO, Jonathan Gatera, emphasised that long-term domestic savings will continue to anchor the country’s capital market growth.
“Increased saving drives domestic investment. That change in behaviour is fundamental to building sustainable financial capacity,” he said, pointing to the rising importance of pension schemes, unit trusts and pooled investment vehicles.
From the market operations perspective, Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, stressed that public markets provide more than just capital, helping issuers strengthen governance and operational standards.
“A public listing provides not just funding, but structure, discipline, and visibility. For ambitious companies, it is a strategic evolution,” he said.
Speaking from private sector experience, Grain Millers Plc Chairperson, Chantal Habiyakare, said listing on the market transformed the company’s competitiveness and formalisation.
“We are living proof that the market works. Going public helped us grow, formalise operations, and compete more effectively. It changed how we operate for the better,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, Steven Biganiro, Director General of Capital Markets and Investment Schemes at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mobilising domestic resources and strengthening financial independence.
“We have laid the foundation. The next step is to build an economy in which our own markets finance our own development. This is about sustainability and shared prosperity,” he said.
While the nationwide campaign has concluded, stakeholders agree that the work continues. The roadshows are seen as a catalyst for sustained engagement among enterprises, regulators and investors as Rwanda seeks to expand market participation and liquidity.
With more local companies exploring listings and international investors seeking entry into frontier markets, Rwanda is positioning itself to build a more transparent, inclusive and robust financial ecosystem capable of financing national development from within.
The discussions were centred on a 28-point proposal, confirmed to be authored by the United States with input from both Kyiv and Moscow. The proposal, which leaked days prior to the talks, caused widespread confusion among allies and a fierce political debate within the US administration.
In a series of weekend posts on his social media platform, President Trump complained that Ukraine’s leadership “has expressed zero gratitude” for American efforts. He also accused European countries of continuing to buy oil from Russia while the United States “continues to sell massive amounts of weapons to NATO, for distribution to Ukraine.” His comments came directly before the Geneva negotiations began.
The peace framework also sparked chaos in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced a major crisis after reports emerged that he told Senators the plan was a “Russian wish list” and not an American proposal. Rubio then publicly reversed course, confirming via a social media post that the plan was indeed “authored by the U.S.” but based on input from all sides. Trump, for his part, later said the plan was not America’s “final offer,” adding to the uncertainty over Washington’s definitive position.
In Europe, leaders voiced significant concerns about the proposal’s concessions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated publicly that while a chance to end the war existed, he was “still quite a way from a good outcome for everyone,” reflecting widespread European scepticism. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that any settlement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and preserve the European Union’s central role in security.
From Kyiv, senior Ukrainian officials were cautiously positive about the diplomatic process but firm on red lines. Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, said the Geneva meeting showed “very good progress” and noted that teams would continue to refine the text.
However, a major sticking point is that the draft framework reportedly crosses Ukraine’s long-standing red lines, particularly demanding the withdrawal of forces from the remaining Ukrainian-controlled part of Donetsk province, a territorial concession Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.
The proposal has also drawn criticism in Washington. Several Republican lawmakers rejected the plan’s concessions, warning that any agreement must reflect “the will of the Ukrainian people,” signalling deep resistance to any arrangement that could pressure Ukraine into ceding territory.
European diplomats warned privately that they were preparing for the possibility that the United States could scale back its military and financial support for Ukraine, a scenario they described as increasingly plausible if Kyiv rejects the plan. They stressed that if Western unity breaks down, Ukraine could be left vulnerable at a critical moment in the conflict.
The Geneva talks are expected to continue, but the fundamental disagreements surrounding the peace plan, combined with Trump’s public attacks, have raised new questions about whether the West can remain united as efforts continue to reach a credible and durable settlement.
According to national development projections, Rwanda’s per capita income is expected to rise to USD 12,476 (over Rwf 17 million) by 2050, supported by rapid economic growth, increased productivity, and stronger social protection systems.
Unemployment is forecast to drop sharply to 0.05 percent from 7 percent in 2035, while universal access to water, electricity, and improved social services is expected to significantly increase national living standards and life expectancy to at least 73 years.
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The 2022 national census estimated Kigali’s population at 1.7 million, a figure projected to more than double to 3.8 million by 2050. This population growth is shaping a comprehensive city development master plan that focuses on expanding affordable and modern housing, upgrading public transport and mobility systems, developing improved economic hubs and commercial districts, and protecting green spaces through environmentally sustainable planning.
The master plan also identifies strategic zones for investment, including Nyarugenge CBD, Remera, Kimironko, Gahanga, Nyabugogo, and Muhima, each earmarked for specific economic and cultural roles.
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The Central Business District, home to major commercial towers such as M-Peace Plaza and KCT, is set for a significant upgrade to strengthen its role as Rwanda’s prime financial and business hub. The development will expand pedestrian-only zones and enhance urban aesthetics, redesign roundabouts to incorporate gardens, walkways, and improved traffic flow, and create new cultural spaces, including an arts complex near Sainte-Famille.
Additionally, the historic Quartier Matheus commercial area will be modernised while preserving its heritage architecture. New pedestrian corridors will link the CBD to Muhima and Nyabugogo, integrating retail, tourism, cultural activities, and green spaces to create a more vibrant and connected city centre.
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Nyabugogo, one of the region’s busiest terminals connecting passengers from Rwanda and neighbouring countries, will undergo a major redesign to ease congestion and meet international service standards.
Plans include developing a modern bus terminal with enhanced commuter services, transforming the surrounding wetland into an urban park that integrates transit routes, landscaping, commercial facilities, and pedestrian pathways.
In addition, Mpazi Park will be constructed as a mixed-use recreation and business zone featuring sports facilities, green spaces, and commercial amenities. New housing projects in Muhima are also planned to provide affordable urban accommodation for local residents, further supporting inclusive urban growth.
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Remera, known for Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and several key institutions, is set to become Kigali’s primary sports, entertainment, and cultural hub. Investments will include new commercial developments, multi-storey parking solutions to reduce congestion around Gisimenti, and cultural centres, libraries, and event venues integrated with business facilities.
Meanwhile, Kimironko Market, one of the city’s busiest traditional markets, will be upgraded alongside its local transport terminal to balance modern retail facilities with the preservation of traditional trading culture, ensuring that the market meets the demands of a growing urban population.
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Gahanga, located in Kicukiro District and strategically positioned along the route to Bugesera International Airport, is planned as a major innovation and commercial zone to attract both domestic and foreign investment. The developments will include technology and innovation parks, green commercial centers connected through pedestrian networks, and new museums, arts centers, hotels, and leisure facilities.
Mixed-use residential developments will be integrated with business and recreational services to create a cohesive urban environment. The nearby Gikondo Exhibition Zone will also be modernised to host large-scale international conferences and expos, complemented by hotels, business services, and green recreational areas.
Kigali’s 2050 Master Plan reflects Rwanda’s broader strategy to develop a competitive city that supports business growth while maintaining environmental sustainability and social inclusiveness.
With major investments in mobility, housing, commercial zones, and cultural infrastructure, Kigali is being positioned as a central economic hub for East Africa and a model for modern urban development across the continent.
Held at Green Hills Academy, the event served as both a cultural showcase and a fundraising platform, with proceeds directed toward supporting 50 rural artisan cooperatives across Rwanda.
Organised by Intercultural Bridge Group CBC, a Community Benefit Company specialising in cultural advocacy, research, and education, the event aimed to create a space where diplomacy meets culture and philanthropy.
The inaugural edition featured vibrant performances from local traditional dance troupes, alongside cultural groups from the Indian community and other participating nations. Attendees also enjoyed a diverse culinary experience, sampling dishes prepared by various diplomatic missions in a celebration of global flavours.
Ten embassies and high commissions took part in the Bazaar, including Angola, Brazil, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, and Sudan, each showcasing their country’s art, cuisine, traditional attire, and tourism attractions. The stalls, set up with the support of community members, gave visitors an opportunity to interact directly with diplomatic representatives and artisans.
Speaking at the event, Naeem Khan, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Rwanda, emphasised the importance of cultural diplomacy as a pillar of international cooperation.
“I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the Diplomatic Charity Bazaar organisers. It’s a great initiative,” he said. “Politics, economics, and culture are equally important pillars of diplomacy. When we understand each other’s cultures and bridge the gaps in cultural communication, genuine public diplomacy emerges.”
He noted that events like the Bazaar help create the foundation for stronger economic and political relations between nations, stressing that culture must not be overlooked in global engagement.
India’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, Mridu Pawan Das, echoed this sentiment, describing the Bazaar as a “very good start” with the potential to grow into a major annual event.
“This is the first time ever that a diplomatic charity bazaar is being organised in Rwanda,” he said. “In the years to come, it will grow to become a really big event with more embassies and high commissions participating. It stands for a noble cause, benefiting 50 cooperatives of artisans, and we are all willing to work together to contribute.”
He highlighted the enthusiasm of the Indian community, which contributed cultural performances, artisan exhibits, and cuisine. He also praised the diversity on display across other country stalls, including jewellery, crafts, traditional attire, and tourism showcases.
Beyond cultural appreciation, the Bazaar served a critical economic purpose. Vendor fees, auctions, and raffle tickets raised funds to support rural artisan cooperatives.
“The money will be used to buy tools, materials, and training according to each cooperative’s needs,” stated Chief Organiser Edison Niyontegereje.
The organisers also announced that an e-commerce platform is under development to help artisans reach wider markets.
“The platform will support the artisans in showcasing their products to a much larger audience, beyond the physical Bazaar,” said Organising Committee Member Dr Saurabh Singhal.
Meanwhile, Edison noted that the success of the first edition sets a strong foundation for growth.
“The first edition gives us hope that the next edition, in 2026, is going to be an even bigger event,” the chief organiser said. “More embassies and partners are showing interest in joining. This is about coming on board to contribute to the cause of improving artisans’ lives.”
He added that the organisation plans to build a cultural centre that will allow visitors to experience different cultures through immersive exhibitions, languages, and virtual reality. The goal, he said, is to foster deeper cultural exchange while exposing Rwandan artisans to global craftsmanship techniques.
Artisans themselves expressed gratitude for the visibility and support the Bazaar generated.
Esperance Mukabaranga, a basket weaver and cultural artist, said the event helped her connect with potential business partners.
“We met different people, and they like our products. We exchanged business cards, and we believe they will become our business partners,” she said.
She added that the funds raised will help strengthen artisan communities: “If they support us, we will be supporting our families and communities as well.”
Despite the event’s success, organisers acknowledged challenges such as the Rwf 10,000 ticket price, which some embassies felt may have limited attendance. Several missions recommended making the event free in future editions to increase accessibility, and some have expressed their intention to sponsor entry for participants to encourage greater participation.
As the event concluded, envoys from the participating missions called for stronger lobbying within diplomatic circles and encouraged more embassies in Kigali to support the cause in future editions. Such backing will not only provide Rwanda’s artisan communities with the resources they need to scale their operations, but also help them gain glocal connections.
President Touadéra was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta. His visit underscores the strong partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in the areas of security and peacekeeping.
Rwandan forces first deployed to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of peacekeeping efforts following civil unrest in 2012. Initially under the African Union mission MISCA, and later the United Nations mission MINUSCA, Rwandan troops have played a key role in protecting civilians, safeguarding UN facilities, and providing security for the Head of State and his family.
In 2020, Rwanda reinforced its support through additional troop deployments and military training programs for the Central African Republic’s armed forces. The third cohort of 438 soldiers trained by Rwanda completed their courses in March 2025, gaining skills in enemy reconnaissance, tactical operations, and field exercises.
Beyond security, Rwanda has contributed to improving the welfare of Central African citizens, with its forces supporting healthcare and other community services. In February 2025, both countries signed a security cooperation agreement to further strengthen bilateral ties.
The latest results extend a consistent upward trend that has seen export earnings grow from $58 million in 2022/23 to $75 million in 2023/24, and now more than $86 million. Increased investment, growing farmer participation, and new markets have led to strong performances from avocados, macadamia, chili, and French beans.
Speaking in an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), Jean Bosco Mulindi, Emerging Commodities Division Manager at NAEB, said the sector is now seeing the benefits of production that began several years ago.
“We are now beginning to witness the impact of plantations that were established in recent years reaching maturity, and this is translating directly into higher export volumes and earnings,” he said.
Mulindi highlighted chili as one of the strongest drivers of growth. In 2018/19, Rwanda exported 605 tonnes, earning under $1 million. Last year, that figure rose to 2,000 tonnes, generating $6 million.
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Avocado production is also expanding rapidly. A recent NAEB survey shows more than 550,000 avocado trees planted nationwide, with 88% aged between one and six years, meaning most are still maturing.
In 2018/19, Rwanda exported fewer than 1,000 tonnes of avocados, earning slightly above $400,000. Last year, exports rose nearly tenfold to 4,200 tonnes, valued at more than $8 million.
“We are seeing many farmers joining horticulture because the opportunities in international markets are clearer than ever,” Mulindi noted.
Mulindi said international demand now exceeds Rwanda’s current supply capacity. Fresh chili is primarily exported to European markets, including Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany, while dried chili is exported in large volumes to China and India.
Avocados are largely exported to the Gulf region, which accounts for around 80% of the market, as well as Europe and neighbouring countries. Rwanda has also recently signed a bilateral agreement allowing avocado exports to China, opening another major destination.
Macadamia exports are in high demand in China, Vietnam, and Japan, where Rwanda is still unable to meet market needs. More than 90% of Rwanda’s French beans are exported to Europe, with the remaining share going to regional and Gulf markets.
Mulindi said the results show the sector is well-positioned for continued growth as more plantations reach full production and export promotion initiatives expand.
