Speaking on the sidelines of the Capital Market Issuer Roadshows' closing ceremony at Kigali Serena Hotel, Rwabukumba said the initiatives aim to deepen private sector participation, expand access to long-term finance, and support sustainable investment across Rwanda and the continent.
'We have received the necessary approvals to allow hard-currency denominated instruments in our market. Soon, companies will be able to raise financing in dollars or other currencies, and investors will be able to invest in these instruments,' said Rwabukumba, who was appointed president of the continental stock exchange body in April 2024.
The Green Finance Window will provide a platform for companies and investors involved in environmentally sustainable projects to raise capital efficiently, while the Pan-Africa ESG Awards will recognise outstanding corporate and individual performance in environmental, social, and governance practices across the continent.
'The market is ready for these instruments,' Rwabukumba said, noting that RSE has already raised more than Rwf 70 billion through sustainability-linked and green bonds, reflecting strong investor interest in sustainable finance.
The ASEA conference, scheduled for November 26-28 at the Kigali Convention Centre, will convene securities exchanges, regulators, investors, and financial service providers from across Africa and the globe. This year's theme is 'Adapting to Global Market Shifts: Strategies for Resilience and Growth.'
Rwabukumba highlighted the broader context for these developments, noting that African capital markets remain underutilised, with low company listings and liquidity levels.
'Across the continent, excluding South Africa, the average number of new listings per market is less than one per year,' he said. 'We must foster a culture of equity investment and local ownership to mobilise savings and drive sustainable growth.'
He added that the conference will serve as a platform for dialogue on critical issues, including SME financing, technological innovation in markets, and sustainability-linked finance. Speakers from countries such as Jamaica will share experiences on leveraging capital markets to support SMEs and cultivate an equity culture.
Capital Markets Authority (CMA) CEO Thapelo Tsheole said the ASEA conference will also spotlight Rwanda's rapid market growth and the expanding ecosystem of licensed entities.
'The conference provides a unique opportunity to showcase Rwanda's capital market developments, including record fundraising, strong turnover, green finance initiatives, and new ESG recognition programs,' Tsheole said.
Established in 1993, ASEA represents more than 30 securities exchanges across Africa, providing a platform for cooperation, policy development, and knowledge sharing. The Kigali conference will focus on strategies for resilience and growth as African markets navigate global economic shifts.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
