Joint Rwanda-China venture to launch textile factory in Kigali #rwanda #RwOT

This new factory is perceived as a crucial step in the country's ongoing efforts to industrialize the economy and diversify its manufacturing capabilities thereby positioning herself as a regional hub in the textile and garment sector.

AC Better Limited, a company comprised of Rwandan and Chinese business owners with deep roots in China's robust textile industry and strong ties to Rwanda, is uniquely positioned to drive this transformation.
Edward Yin, the company CEO and key figure in the Kigali operations regards the establishment of the factory as a strategic move that aligns with both Rwanda's national goals and the broader economic vision for the region.

Apart from supplying products, AC Better provides spare parts and repair services to clients from tailoring companies to retailers. ensuring comprehensive support and high-quality products.

"Rwanda is emerging as a central hub for the modern clothing industry in East Africa," Yin explains. "Establishing this factory is not just about producing textiles; it's about creating an ecosystem that supports local businesses, fosters innovation, and connects Rwanda to global markets."

The company already operates a successful warehouse and supply chain business, providing local consumers with a wide range of textile fabrics, sewing machines, and essential accessories such as buttons and zippers.
They go beyond merely supplying products, providing spare parts and repair services to ensure that clients, from tailoring companies to retailers, receive comprehensive support and high-quality products.

Edward Yin is a key figure in regards to preparations of establishment of a textile and garment factory

This will serve as a major supply center for textiles in Rwanda, significantly enhancing the availability of high-quality fabrics and related products. This will be particularly beneficial for local designers, tailors, and fashion entrepreneurs who often face challenges in sourcing materials and accessing modern equipment.

The decision to establish the factory comes at a time when Rwanda is experiencing rapid growth in its industrial landscape. With a strong emphasis on promoting local manufacturing, the government has been actively encouraging investments in sectors that have the potential to create jobs, reduce dependency on imports, and boost exports. The textile industry, identified as one of the key areas for development, is now set to receive a major boost with this new venture.

The factory is expected to not only meet local demand but also cater for the broader East African market, thereby positioning Rwanda as a key player in the regional textile industry. Shyaka Gakuba, a Rwandan shareholder in AC Better Limited has been instrumental in conceptualizing the project.

Reflecting on the journey that led to this point, Gakuba said, "The idea to establish a modern textile factory in Rwanda was conceptualized when a ban against importation of second hand clothes was adopted. We looked at this as a way of creating a more self-reliant environment in clothing production.'
He is optimistic that this will enable a thriving, competitive industry that could provide jobs, support local businesses, and reduce reliance on imported textiles.

Local consumers are provided with a wide range of textile fabrics, sewing machines, and essential accessories such as buttons and zippers.

This development has since garnered significant interest from various stakeholders in Rwanda's textile sector such as Maximilien Kolbe Uwayo Hategekimana, co-CEO of Kuza Africa Ltd, a hub dedicated to advancing the textile and garment industry in Rwanda.

He believes that this will positively contribute to transforming Rwanda's fashion and textile sector. "Sourcing supplies and machines can be incredibly costly particularly for designers and small businesses from low-income economies," he notes.

"By clustering designers into one entity, we can achieve economies of scale that reduce costs and streamline the production process. Our collaboration with AC Better Limited will ensure that our members have access to the materials and equipment they need at competitive prices," he affirms.

Members and stakeholders in a partnership between Rwandan and Chinese business entrepreneurs have resolved to establish a state-of-the-art textile factory in Kigali by the end of next year.

Hategekimana, who connects tailors, fashion designers, and other value chain stakeholders by offering education, business development services, and access to world-class equipment, believes this is a positive step in the right direction.

In reducing Rwanda's reliance on imported textiles, the idea of any contribution towards improving the country's trade balance, industrial landscape and economic resilience is palpable.

Sourcing supplies and machines can be incredibly costly particularly for designers and small businesses from low-income economies

Sam K Nkurunziza

Source : https://en.igihe.com/economy/article/joint-rwanda-china-venture-to-launch-textile-factory-in-kigali