{"id":55889,"date":"2025-10-08T22:29:21","date_gmt":"2025-10-08T22:29:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/afreximbank-launches-rwanda-atg-chapter-to-boost-intra-african-trade\/"},"modified":"2025-10-09T09:28:15","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T09:28:15","slug":"afreximbank-launches-rwanda-atg-chapter-to-boost-intra-african-trade","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/afreximbank-launches-rwanda-atg-chapter-to-boost-intra-african-trade\/","title":{"rendered":"Afreximbank launches Rwanda ATG chapter to boost intra-African trade"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Afreximbank, a Pan-African multilateral financial institution established in 1993, is dedicated to promoting intra- and extra-African trade across its 53 African and 13 Caribbean member states. <\/p>\n<p>The high-level workshop and launch event held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, financial institutions, trade promotion agencies, private sector associations, and exporters and importers, to explore how digital platforms can accelerate trade growth and regional integration in Rwanda and beyond.<\/p>\n<p>Themed \u201cBoosting Trade in Rwanda through the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG),\u201d the launch marked the introduction of the ATG platform in Rwanda, a digital ecosystem designed to simplify cross-border trade, lower costs, and improve transparency.  <\/p>\n<p>The event also showcased Afreximbank\u2019s commitment to supporting Rwanda\u2019s National Export Strategy II, Digital Transformation Strategy, and the country\u2019s broader ambition to become a regional hub for innovation, logistics, and trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).<\/p>\n<p>{{A step toward digital trade integration<br \/>\n}}<\/p>\n<p>The ATG platform was inaugurated by the Afreximbank in June 2023, in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat. It offers integrated access to essential trade services such as trade finance, payment systems, due diligence services, and market intelligence\u2014all of which align with Rwanda&#8217;s priorities to enhance SME competitiveness, digital inclusion, and export diversification.<\/p>\n<p>In his remarks, Emeka Onyia, Director of Digital Banking at Afreximbank, emphasised that the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) is crucial to transforming how African businesses interact. He noted that 90 banks across 35 countries and 9,000 verified companies are already trading on the platform.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBut I tell you this is not a vision anymore, this is a reality. ATG is live, and across Africa, right now, we have 90 banks accounting across 35 countries that have joined the ATG ecosystem. We have 9,000 verified companies that are trading&#8230;And to date, we have computed bills in excess of $200 million this year alone,\u201d Onyia said.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, Onyia noted that Rwanda\u2019s strategic location and commitment to digital solutions position it as a leader in driving this transformation across the continent.<\/p>\n<p>{{Rwanda\u2019s strategic role in the AfCFTA<br \/>\n}}<\/p>\n<p>The workshop also served as a platform to discuss how Rwanda&#8217;s active participation in the AfCFTA can be supported by digital trade tools like the ATG. Dr. Alexis Kabayiza, Chief Technical Advisor to Rwanda\u2019s Ministry of Trade and Industry, highlighted Rwanda\u2019s role in regional trade integration. <\/p>\n<p>He remarked that the government\u2019s digital transformation efforts, including the Rwanda Electronic Single Window and Umucyo e-procurement platform, have already streamlined trade processes within the country. With the introduction of the ATG, he noted that Rwanda aims to further enhance its digital infrastructure, making it a competitive trade hub in the region.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cTo achieve the promise of AfCFTA, we must strengthen the enablers of trade, such as efficient payments, interoperable digital platforms, and harmonised regulatory frameworks. The Africa Trade Gateway is one of those innovations. It translates the AfCFTA vision into practical solutions and empowers businesses to connect, transact, and grow with confidence,\u201d Dr. Kabayiza, who represented the Minister for Trade Prudence Sebahizi at the event, stated.<\/p>\n<p>{{Boosting SME competitiveness<br \/>\n}}<\/p>\n<p>A key focus of the ATG platform is supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of Africa\u2019s economy. The workshop included dedicated sessions where SMEs could learn how to leverage the ATG to access financing, markets, and partnerships across the continent. <\/p>\n<p>Afreximbank\u2019s initiative is in line with Rwanda\u2019s goal of fostering an environment that supports SMEs through digital solutions and increased access to trade finance.<\/p>\n<p>Businesswoman Brigette Harrington, CEO of Igire Coffee, shared her experience with the audience, noting that the Africa Trade Gateway plays a critical role in helping businesses like hers navigate the complexities of cross-border trade. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe world duty on this is 20%. Under AfCFTA, my customer will pay 2.5%\u2026 It\u2019s about levelling the playing field so that when you ship your products from here to another African country, you can at least compete\u2026 ATG provides a platform, like an e-commerce platform, where you can list your products and also show how a person can make a purchase,\u201d Harrington said.<\/p>\n<p>{{Collaborative effort for future trade success<br \/>\n}}<\/p>\n<p>Afreximbank\u2019s collaboration with local institutions such as the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR), and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) was emphasised throughout the event. <\/p>\n<p>The partnerships are integral to embedding the ATG platform within Rwanda\u2019s broader trade facilitation and investment promotion ecosystem. <\/p>\n<p>Panel discussions focused on the importance of creating a harmonised regulatory framework and developing secure digital identities to further enhance the ease of doing business within the region.<\/p>\n<p>The Africa Trade Gateway initiative builds on successful workshops held in Kenya and Ethiopia, where participants emphasised the central role of digital trade infrastructure in realising the AfCFTA&#8217;s potential. <\/p>\n<p>Rwanda\u2019s proactive approach to innovation and trade facilitation, combined with its strong commitment to digital inclusion, positions it as an ideal partner in Afreximbank\u2019s mission to deepen continental integration through digital transformation and inclusive trade.<\/p>\n<p>As the workshop concluded, stakeholders voiced their optimism about the future of African trade, with the ATG providing the tools and infrastructure necessary to bridge the gap between Africa\u2019s potential and its trading realities. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95799 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1656.jpg\" alt=\"Afreximbank launched the Rwanda Chapter of the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) in Kigali on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95802 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1666.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95813 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1252.jpg\" alt=\"The high-level workshop and launch event held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, financial institutions, trade promotion agencies, private sector associations, and exporters and importers.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95812 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1415.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95814 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1312.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95810 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1429.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95809 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1385.jpg\" alt=\" Emeka Onyia, Director of Digital Banking at Afreximbank, emphasised that the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) is crucial to transforming how African businesses interact. \" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95807 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1496.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Alexis Kabayiza, Chief Technical Advisor to Rwanda\u2019s Ministry of Trade and Industry, highlighted Rwanda\u2019s role in regional trade integration. \" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95811 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1320.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Ayub Shitseswa delivered remarks on behalf of Felix Chege, CEO Real Sources.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95800 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1615.jpg\" alt=\"The Private Sector Federation (PSF)CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, attended the event.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95815 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1578.jpg\" alt=\"Tony Francis, CEO of Rwanda Bankers&#039; Association, also attended the workshop.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95806 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1748.jpg\" alt=\"Trade development strategist Christine Nyairo moderated a panel on \u201cVoices from ATG Community Partners: Accelerating Africa\u2019s Single Continental Market \u2013 Collaborations, Networks &amp; Market Access.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95804 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1761.jpg\" alt=\"Businesswoman Brigette Harrington, CEO of Igire Coffee, shared her experience with the audience, noting that the Africa Trade Gateway plays a critical role in helping businesses like hers navigate the complexities of cross-border trade. \" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95803 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1771.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95801 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1823.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95805 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1606.jpg\" alt=\"Julius Bizimungu served as the MC for the day.\" \/><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"spip-document spip-document-95808 aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/jpg\/6d1a1484.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Afreximbank launched the Rwanda Chapter of the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) in Kigali on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, marking a significant step in the drive to boost intra-continental trade within Africa. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":2000095798,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[62],"tags":[75],"byline":[192],"hashtag":[],"class_list":["post-55889","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-62","tag-homenews","byline-wycliffe-nyamasege"],"bylines":[{"id":192,"name":"Wycliffe Nyamasege","slug":"wycliffe-nyamasege","description":"","image":{"id":0,"url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/?s=96&d=mm&f=y&r=g","alt":"Default avatar","title":"Default avatar","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","sizes":[]},"user_id":131}],"contributors":[{"id":192,"name":"Wycliffe Nyamasege","slug":"wycliffe-nyamasege","description":"","image":{"id":0,"url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/?s=96&d=mm&f=y&r=g","alt":"Default avatar","title":"Default avatar","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","sizes":[]},"user_id":131}],"featured_image":{"id":2000095798,"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","alt":"","caption":"","mime_type":"image\/jpeg","width":0,"height":0,"sizes":{"thumbnail":{"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"medium":{"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"medium_large":{"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"large":{"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"full":{"url":"https:\/\/en-images.igihe.com\/IMG\/logo\/6d1a1656logo.jpg","width":0,"height":0}}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/55889","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/131"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=55889"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/55889\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2000095798"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=55889"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=55889"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=55889"},{"taxonomy":"byline","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/byline?post=55889"},{"taxonomy":"hashtag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/new.igihe.com\/english\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hashtag?post=55889"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}