The forum gathered key government representatives and business leaders, including Hazza AlQahtani, UAE Ambassador to Rwanda, and John Mirenge, Rwanda's Ambassador to the UAE. The event was also attended by several Rwandan business owners operating in the UAE, and UAE investors with interests in Rwanda.
In his keynote address, Amb. AlQahtani emphasized the robust and developing relationship between the UAE and Rwanda.
"It is my privilege to welcome you to this important platform for the business communities of the UAE and Rwanda. This forum reflects our shared ambition to strengthen commercial ties, foster innovation, and create sustainable economic growth for both nations'.
Amb. AlQahtani outlined the strategic opportunities available for Rwandan businesses across various sectors, including real estate, renewable energy, technology and logistics.
"The UAE offers a dynamic and globally recognized business environment. With a strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and a government committed to economic diversification, we present an attractive destination for international investments," he said.
Amb. AlQahtani highlighted the UAE's ongoing efforts to solidify its position as a global economic hub, noting that the country's non-oil foreign trade reached AED 1.4 trillion in the first half of 2024; a 25% increase in exports.
He also stressed the UAE's ambitious goal of achieving AED 3 trillion in non-oil trade by the end of 2024.
"This demonstrates our commitment to fostering long-term economic prosperity, and Rwanda can play a significant role by capitalizing on opportunities across sectors such as AI, agri-tech, and renewable energy," Amb. AlQahtani added. "By identifying synergies between our economies and addressing any challenges that may impact the growth of bilateral trade, we can pave the way for more robust collaboration.'
He encouraged Rwandan entrepreneurs to explore emerging industries, particularly in the fields of green technology, advanced manufacturing, and smart agriculture.
On behalf of Rwanda, Amb. John Mirenge reiterated the country's enthusiasm for welcoming UAE investments.
"Rwanda is committed to supporting UAE businesses that are looking to establish or expand their presence in our country. While we have seen positive developments, there is room for much more, and I strongly encourage more UAE businesses to consider Rwanda as a prime destination for growth," Mirenge said, calling for a concerted effort to elevate bilateral trade to new heights. He encouraged Rwandan entrepreneurs to explore emerging industries, particularly in green technology, advanced manufacturing, and smart agriculture.
Leading the physical delegation in Kigali was Juliana Muganza, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), alongside representatives from the Private Sector Federation (PSF), the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
In her remarks, Muganza emphasized the growing importance of UAE-Rwanda partnerships and the critical role these partnerships play in driving Rwanda's Vision 2050 agenda.
"We have laid a solid foundation for foreign investment, and we are confident that collaborations like these will continue to unlock new opportunities for growth and development in both nations," she said.
The forum also featured participation from key UAE institutions including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy, the Fujairah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce & Industry, with officials sharing insights into the UAE's strategic sectors, including AI, food security, and logistics.
Both Rwandan and UAE officials expressed optimism for the future of trade and investment between the two nations. This platform has once again demonstrated that the partnership between Rwanda and the UAE is not only resilient but has considerable also filled with boundless potential to develop further.
'We look forward to seeing more initiatives that will strengthen our economic ties and contribute to the prosperity of our people," Muganza concluded.
With both countries already seeing tangible benefits from their cooperation, the meeting solidified the foundation for deeper collaboration, offering Rwandan businesses a gateway to one of the world's most vibrant economies while presenting UAE investors with new opportunities in Rwanda's rapidly expanding market.
Sam K Nkurunziza
