The event, hosted by the Ambassador's wife, Ndatirwa Jeanne, highlighted Rwanda's commitment to gender equality, sustainability, and economic empowermentâ€"reinforcing the nation's philosophy of "Trade, not aid."
In her address, Ndatirwa underscored Rwanda's longstanding dedication to gender equality and self-reliance, emphasizing that the country has actively implemented policies that empower women across all sectors.
'Rwanda stands as a global model, not just in words but in tangible, transformative action,' she stated.
Reflecting on Rwanda's history, she explained that after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the country adopted a "Leave No One Behind" approach, ensuring inclusive governance and sustainable development.
Rwanda's leadership in political representation is evident, with women making up 61% of Parliament and 50% of the Cabinet, holding key ministerial positions in ICT, Environment, and Public Service.
'This political empowerment is not symbolicâ€"it has translated into laws and policies that prioritize women's rights and social protection,' she affirmed.
Beyond politics, Ndatirwa highlighted Rwanda's significant progress in women's economic empowerment. Initiatives such as Umurenge SACCOs (savings and credit cooperatives), gender-focused bank loans, and the Women's Entrepreneurship Development Program (WEDP) have enabled financial inclusion, with 63% of Rwandan women having access to formal financial services.
'Trade, not aid, is what happens when sustainability meets sound women empowerment governance,' she remarked, reinforcing Rwanda's approach to self-reliance.
Education was another key focus of her address, with Rwanda successfully closing the gender gap in schooling. Currently, 97% of girls are enrolled in primary education, with equal participation in secondary school. STEM programs for girls and technical education initiatives further equip young women with the necessary skills to thrive in modern industries.
On sustainability, Ndatirwa highlighted Rwanda's progressive environmental policies, including the 2008 ban on plastic, investment in renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture programs. She emphasized that economic diversification has enabled Rwanda to expand beyond traditional exports like coffee and tea into mining, textiles, and technology.
While acknowledging Rwanda's progress, she reminded attendees that more work remains. 'Our commitment to gender equality has never been stronger. But while we are called to accelerate action, let's continue to move even faster,' she urged.
The event also featured insights from Maura Oerding, CEO of the Coffee Cooperative and representative of Angelique's Finest Coffee. The cooperative, consisting of over 2,000 Rwandan women, produces coffee sold in Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austriaâ€"cultivated, washed, and roasted in Rwanda before reaching global markets.
'This event was about celebrating the impact being created by 2,300 Rwandan coffee farmersâ€"women who are not only producing high-quality coffee but are also leading the charge for fair and sustainable coffee,' she said.
She emphasized that Rwanda's women-led coffee cooperative is a model of economic independence and ownership, demonstrating that conscious consumer choices can drive global impact. 'With one cup of coffee, we can make a difference,' she added.
Jane Williams-Volk, the Rector of Touro University Berlin, reflected on how the event provided an opportunity to learn about Rwanda's transformation into a model of sustainability across agriculture, energy, and legal rights.
'Madame Jeanne opened her doors and our hearts to show the tremendous advancement in Rwanda,' she said, praising the nation's commitment to gender equality and economic empowerment.
Ramata Ouattara-Diabate, the wife of the Ambassador of Ivory Coast, expressed her deep appreciation for Ndatirwa, who brought them together to discuss women's self-reliance, inspired by the progress of women in Rwanda.
The gathering in Berlin served as both a celebration and a call to actionâ€"showcasing how Rwanda's model of empowering women through trade and sustainable development continues to inspire global conversations on self-reliance and progress.
Karirima Aimable Ngarambe
