Business on African Updates

African leaders in Kigali say economic freedom is continent’s next liberation struggle

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

African leaders and policymakers gathering in Kigali to mark Africa Day said the continent must now focus on economic sovereignty and regional integration more than six decades after political liberation movements swept across Africa.

The Africa Liberation Day celebrations, organized by the Pan African Movement Rwanda Chapter on Sunday, brought together senior officials, diplomats and Pan-African leaders under this year’s theme on sustainable water access and sanitation as part of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision.

African Trade Under AfCFTA Expands Rapidly Ahead of US$230 Billion Target by 2027

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The third edition of Biashara Africa opened on Monday in Lomé, bringing together African leaders, investors, manufacturers and business executives for a three-day conference focused on boosting trade and industrialisation across the continent under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Among the leaders attending the opening ceremony were H.E. Faure Gnassingbé, H.E. Wamkele Mene and former Niger President H.E. Mahamadou Issoufou, alongside delegates from across Africa, the United States and Dubai.

Rwanda Raises Development Spending in New Budget Plan

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Rwanda’s revised national budget of Frw6.95 trillion for the 2025/2026 fiscal year continues to draw attention as implementation moves forward, with citizens and analysts focusing on whether increased development spending is translating into visible change on the ground.

According to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, the budget was revised downward by about Frw80.4 billion**,** mainly due to adjustments in financing arrangements for major infrastructure projects. At the same time, development expenditure increased by more than Frw253 billion, reaching approximately Frw2.1 trillion.

Why More Rwandans Should Pay Attention to the National Budget

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Every year in Rwanda, the government unveils a national budget worth trillions of francs, outlining how public money will be collected and spent. While the announcement often attracts national attention for a short period, many citizens remain disconnected from the process despite the direct impact budget decisions have on their daily lives.

The national budget influences nearly every sector of the economy, including healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, transport and employment. It determines which projects receive funding, where public investment is directed and how government priorities are shaped.

Rwanda Eyes Canada Investment as AfCFTA Expands Global Trade Strategy

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Rwanda is stepping up its role in shaping Africa’s global trade outlook following fresh engagement between the AfCFTA Secretariat and its diplomatic mission in Canada.

On May 5, Wamkele Mene met Prosper Higiro in Ottawa to review progress under the African Continental Free Trade Area and explore opportunities to strengthen Africa–Canada trade ties.

The AfCFTA, which brings together 54 African countries into a $3.4 trillion market of over 1.3 billion people, is increasingly being used as a platform to attract global investment not just boost intra-African trade.

Biashara Afrika 2026 Set for Lomé as AfCFTA Pushes Trade Agenda Forward

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The next chapter of Africa’s trade story will unfold from May 18 to May 20, 2026 in Lomé, as leaders, businesses, and innovators gather for Biashara Africa under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

This edition comes at a decisive moment. AfCFTA is no longer just a vision on paper. It is a system in motion, with real expectations from governments, private sector players, and millions of Africans whose livelihoods depend on trade.

AI is Africa's new weapon against massive financial crime

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As the Afreximbank Compliance Forum 2025 is currently underway in Kigali, Rwanda, the continent’s plan to combat illicit financial flows became clear. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now Africa’s best defense against dirty money.

The forum brought together experts to tackle financial crime, a severe problem that’s far more damaging than just complex schemes.

Mahmoud Mhiri, an Executive Partner at Vneuron, explained that financial crime, particularly Anti-Money Laundering (AML), harms the entire economy. AML is the process where criminals hide funds generated from illegal acts like corruption or fraud by cycling them through the legal financial system.

How Pfumvudza Is Helping Rwandan Farmers Beat Climate Challenges and Boost Yields

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A simple, yet powerful farming method is driving huge increases in crop production for small-scale farmers in southern Province of Rwanda. Members of Urumuri Cyamukuza Cooperative in Gisagara District are celebrating bumper harvests after adopting Pfumvudza, a climate-smart agriculture technique promoted through the Joint Programme on Accelerating Progress towards Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE).

This shift from traditional to modern, sustainable practices is reshaping food security, boosting incomes, and giving rural women a stronger voice in community development.

Rwanda's Rural Women Achieve Economic Freedom Through JP RWEE Agriculture

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A quiet revolution is transforming the lives of rural women across five districts in Rwanda, turning smallholder farmers into confident entrepreneurs and community leaders. Through the Joint Programme on Accelerating Progress towards Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE), a global initiative bringing together key UN agencies and the Government of Rwanda to strengthen women’s livelihoods and resilience in agriculture.

The program’s impact is vividly clear in Gisagara District, Southern Province, where women are moving beyond traditional subsistence farming to embrace modern, climate-resilient agricultural practices and market access.

Kenya’s Brian Karoney Turns Grief into Cycling Inspiration at UCI Kigali

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali, Rwanda At the UCI Road World Championships 2025 in Kigali, one of the most inspiring faces in the crowd was not a medal winner but a young Kenyan entrepreneur, Mr. Brian Karoney, in his early 30s. He came to Rwanda not just as a fan, but as the founder of a new cycling team called Airpocket, backed by Enovepay, his Nairobi-based payment company.

For Brian, cycling is more than sport. It is deeply personal. A few years ago, his wife fell seriously ill and needed regular blood donations. The people who donated were mostly cyclists athletes with strong health and open hearts. Their kindness gave Brian more time with his wife before she passed away.

New Fund to Support Small-Scale Farmers in Nigeria

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In a significant step for Africa’s food future, two of the continent’s major financial organizations have joined forces. The Bank of Agriculture (BOA) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have made a powerful commitment to help Nigeria’s small-scale farmers. At a recent trade meeting in Algeria, they signed an agreement to create a funding program worth up to US$1 billion. This money is meant to help farmers grow more food and sell it more easily.

Rwandan Exhibitors Overcome Packaging Hurdles at IATF 2025 in Algiers

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) is underway in Algiers, Algeria. The fair started on 4 September and will end on 10 September 2025. It is the 4th edition, bringing together all African countries in one place.

At the previous IATF 2023 held in Cairo, Rwanda faced challenges with packaging. Their products were often more expensive compared to others. This was due to Rwanda’s ban on single-use plastics, which made packaging harder to find.

AfCFTA and Afreximbank Leaders Chart Africa’s Trade Future at IATF2025 in Algiers

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A fireside chat at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) on Saturday brought together two leading voices shaping Africa’s trade landscape; H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, and Prof. Benedict Oramah, outgoing President and Chairman of Afreximbank.

The session, held under the theme “The First Mile to the Future: Reflections on IATF, AfCFTA, and the Power of Partnership,” explored how African partnerships, policy, and finance are driving the continent’s trade transformation.

Algiers to Host Landmark African Trade Fair (IATF2025)

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ALGIERS - From September 4 to 10, 2025, Algiers is transforming into the central hub of African commerce, hosting the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025). This landmark gathering, more than just a trade event, signals Algeria’s renewed commitment to leading the continent’s economic future. It’s a statement of purpose, a bold move to leverage its historical role in Pan-Africanism to forge new economic bonds across Africa.

While the IATF 2025 spotlights Algeria’s continental ambitions, it also provides a unique stage for powerful bilateral collaborations. A prime example is the budding partnership between Algeria and Rwanda. Though separated by thousands of kilometers, these two nations are finding common ground in their shared vision for an economically integrated Africa.

Agriculture: Alliance Bioversity and Rwanda's commitment to Agenda 2063

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In a significant step towards achieving Africa’s development goals, Alliance Bioversity International and the Government of Rwanda have strengthened their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on August 14, 2025, in Kigali. This collaboration aims to drive progress towards the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a comprehensive plan for the continent’s socio-economic transformation.

According to Dr. Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg, Managing Director of of Alliance Bioversity Africa, the alliance’s work is deeply aligned with Agenda 2063 and other key African priorities, such as the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP).

Africa: Innovating for a Secure and Stable African Future

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali, Rwanda from 19th - 20th May 2025, leaders and companies focused on safety met in Kigali. AfricanUpdates talked to some of them. Everyone agreed: for Africa to be safer, countries need to make more of their own security gear. They also need to use new tools and work together better.

Africa faces many tough challenges. Today, over 37 million people in Africa have fled their homes because of fighting. Millions more are displaced inside their own countries. Sudan, Congo, and the Sahel region still see lots of trouble. This shows how much more security is needed. Still, some places are quite safe. Rwanda, for example, has made big strides since its past troubles. Countries like Ghana and Botswana are also known for being peaceful.

The Role of Accountants in Creating African Value Digitally

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Friday, on 9th of May 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) celebrated the launch of its new building, an event that drew attendees from across the continent who were also present for the Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) 2025. Against the backdrop of this milestone, a crucial question took center stage: the pivotal role of accountants in achieving Africa’s aspiration of ‘creating value for Africa,’ and the ways in which ICPAR is championing technology to realize this vision.

Rwanda: Tech, Training, and Growth Highlighted by ACOA Exhibitors

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The bustling city of Kigali became a central point for the future of African finance as the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) unfolded. With a rising number of individuals pursuing higher education across Africa, the congress provided a vital platform for exhibitors to showcase innovations and build crucial connections within the accountancy sector. The growing demand for skilled financial professionals, driven by economic expansion and increasing regulatory complexity, was evident as companies presented their solutions and visions for the continent.

Over 2,000 Accountants Unite in Rwanda for ACOA 2025

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

KIGALI, Rwanda Over 2,000 professional accountants and key stakeholders from more than 65 countries have gathered in Kigali for the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA). The event, taking place from May 6th to 9th, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Center (KCC), is hosted by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) in collaboration with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA). This landmark event is designed to foster connection, learning, and innovation within the accountancy ecosystem.

Unlocking Trade in Landlocked Countries via SEZs and AfCFTA

Sat, 03 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Landlocked countries in Africa, like Rwanda, have historically faced significant hurdles in international trade. Geographic limitations often translate to higher transportation costs, longer transit times, and reduced competitiveness in the global market. However, a new era of opportunity is dawning, fueled by the rise of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These initiatives hold the promise of transforming these disadvantages into springboards for economic growth and diversification.

Djibouti: Africa Focuses on Infrastructure for Trade Boost

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - in the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti on April 22, 2025, focused on the development of infrastructure and trade corridors across Africa, recognizing their vital role in enhancing connectivity and integration.

Discussions centered on initiatives like the Trans-Africa Land Bridge and the challenges and opportunities in developing the continent’s infrastructure.

Mr. Denis Muganga, Director of Private Sector Investment at the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA), highlighted the ambitious Trans-Africa Highway project, spanning 18 to 30 countries with a planned 60,000-kilometer network. “I’m sure most of us have heard about this project, considered as one of the major projects of the century,” Muganga stated. However, he also pointed out the slow progress and challenges hindering infrastructure development in Africa.

Djibouti Hosts Regional Conference, Emphasizes AfCFTA's Role in African Trade

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - The Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones commenced its first day on April 21, 2025, in Djibouti, drawing officials and delegates from across Africa. The event highlighted Djibouti’s strategic importance in driving African trade and the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the continent’s economic integration.

The Minister of Trade and Tourism in Djibouti, Mohamed Warsama Dirieh, extended a warm welcome, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the conference. Minister Dirieh underscored Djibouti’s historical and ongoing commitment to economic integration.

Djibouti: Skills and Technology for Special Economic Zones Growth

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A compelling afternoon panel session at the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti focused on the critical role of innovation, technology, and skills development in driving the success of SEZs and broader economic growth across Africa.

The discussion centered on how these three elements can be leveraged to transform SEZs into dynamic hubs of economic activity and contribute to the overall prosperity of the continent.

Njoroge Francis Gitau, Manager of Special Economic Zones in Kenya, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to innovation. “It is very critical they don’t see innovation only but also it’s right in the whole sector. Innovation, science, and technology are critical aspects,” Gitau stated. He highlighted Kenya’s commitment to developing its human capital, noting, “We offer training to the youth in Kenya, we understand the issue around capacity building, we ensure we have centers for where to offer trainings.”

Kigali Summit Pledges Universities as Catalysts for Green Development

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD 2025) has commenced in Kigali, marking a significant step towards positioning universities as pivotal drivers in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference, hosted by the University of Kigali (UoK) in partnership with North-West University and the University of Fort Hare, has drawn together leading academics, policymakers, industry experts, and advocates to address critical environmental challenges and explore sustainable solutions.

From Slum to Solution: Bishop Wolah Mission to Empower African Women

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Bishop Darlington Wolah journey began in the challenging environment of a Liberian slum, where he witnessed firsthand the struggles women faced with menstrual hygiene. These experiences, coupled with a poignant memory of a young girl publicly humiliated during an unexpected period, ignited a passion within him. Now, based in Rwanda, Bishop Wolah is the driving force behind MySafepad, a sexual reproductive health and rights organization dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls across Africa. MySafepad goes beyond simply providing menstrual products. It’s a holistic approach that encompasses education, access, and sustainable solutions. The organization focuses on menstrual hygiene management, antimicrobial resistance awareness, and supplying healthcare facilities with safe, antimicrobial materials. Recognizing the prevalence of unhygienic practices, especially in rural areas, MySafepad also collaborates with weavers to produce antimicrobial fabrics, ensuring that even everyday materials contribute to better health.

Rwanda: Charting a Digital Trade Future for Africa - IFF 2025

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali buzzed with global expertise this Monday, February 24th, as the Inclusive Fintech Forum convened to discuss the transformative power of inclusive technology. A central focus of the day was the panel session, “AfCFTA VISION FOR DIGITAL TRADE,” where leaders from across the continent and beyond shared insights on the future of digital commerce in Africa.

Dr. Talkmore Chidede, Senior Digital Trade Expert at the AfCFTA Secretariat, emphasized the commitment of African leaders to facilitate seamless digital trade transactions. “We are ensuring digital trade happens, continent-wide,” he declared. “This demonstrates a powerful political will.” He outlined key elements of the AfCFTA’s digital trade protocol, including rules of origin, digital identities for border crossing, cross-border digital payments, and online safety and security. “This protocol gives you a license to operate in all African markets. That’s the essence of this digital market,” Dr. Chidede explained. “But we need to do more. The next step is to ensure these commitments benefit everyone.”

Kigali Institute of Professional Brokers, Shaping the Future of Rwanda's Brokerage Sector

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The brokerage sector in Rwanda is growing quickly, offering great opportunities for people with the right skills. But even with this growth, there are still challenges, especially when it comes to professionalism and ethics. Kigali Institute of Professional Brokers (KIPB) is leading the way in fixing these issues. They are dedicated to teaching future brokers the knowledge, skills, and ethical standards needed to succeed in Rwanda’s financial markets.

KIPB is committed to offering a range of programs designed to provide aspiring brokers with a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of financial markets. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience in the field, KIPB offers tailored programs to meet the needs of all learners.

Rwanda: Young CEOs & Professionals Launch Financial Literacy Program in Kigali

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, Kigali, Rwanda played host to a dynamic gathering of young CEOs and business professionals at a significant event aimed at discussing and promoting the importance of financial literacy. The event, brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to tackle pressing challenges and opportunities in the business world around the theme “Awareness & Understanding the Importance of Financial Literacy,” The day was marked by the official launch of a nationwide financial literacy program, a significant step towards empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Reducing Food Waste through Innovation: Rwanda’s Call to Action

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali, On September 23, 2024, the 2nd Rwanda Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Conference took place at the Kigali Convention Center.

The two-day event brought together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to explore technological innovations in agriculture under the theme, “Promoting Climate-Resilient Agriculture through Science, Technology, and Innovation for Improved Food Security and Nutrition.”

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri addressing participants at the 2nd STI Conference

Rwanda ranks among top African destinations for private investment in third quarter of 2024

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Rwanda has emerged as one of the leading destinations for private investment in Africa, securing a prominent position in the latest Stears Private Capital in Africa Report for the third quarter of 2024.

The report, which analyzes private market transactions across the continent, highlights the continued vibrancy of Africa’s private capital landscape.

In Q3 2024, a total of 73 private market deals were recorded, with 39 of them disclosing a combined value of $2.27 billion.

Rwandan ranger Claver Ntoyinkima among top conservationists honoured by Prince William

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

laver Ntoyinkima, a Senior Ranger Guide and Trainer at Nyungwe National Park, has been awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.

The 51-year-old was one of three top African conservationists honoured by Prince William at the Tusk Conservation Awards ceremony held at The Savoy Hotel in London, the United Kingdom (UK), on the night of Wednesday, November 27, 2024.