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New Leadership, New Hopes: François Twagirumukiza Takes the Helm of Rwanda's Private Sector Federation

Administrator — 2026-03-13T16:52:51Z

On a bright Friday morning, March 13, 2026, business leaders from across Rwanda gathered at the Kigali Convention Center for an important moment in the country's private sector.

The hall was filled with anticipation as members of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) prepared to elect new leaders who would guide Rwanda's business community for the next three years.

When the votes were counted, François Twagirumukiza emerged as the new President of the PSF. Out of 202 members who cast their ballots, 191 placed their confidence in him. Running unopposed, Twagirumukiza succeeded Jeanne Françoise Mubiligi, who had led the federation since February 2023.

For Twagirumukiza, the victory was more than just a leadership appointment—it was the continuation of a journey that began nearly three decades ago.

Twenty-eight years earlier, he had entered the world of business with little more than determination and hope. At the time, he did not even have a clear business idea. Before becoming an entrepreneur, he spent a year and a half working as a teacher. Eventually, he decided to try his hand at business.

“I started simply as an experiment,” he once said. “My only capital was hope.”

That hope slowly grew into success. Today, Twagirumukiza owns two companies, including Eastern Hope, a firm that imports construction materials into Rwanda. Looking back on his journey, he credits Rwanda's stable leadership and supportive business environment for enabling entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.

Alongside Twagirumukiza, other leaders were also elected. Jean Claude Uwizeyemungu was chosen as First Vice President with 184 votes, while Diane Mukasahaha Kamanzi became Second Vice President with 180 votes. New executive committees were also elected to represent sectors such as services, industry, agriculture and livestock, commerce, women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

After the election, the newly chosen leaders spoke about their vision for Rwanda's private sector.

Twagirumukiza emphasized the importance of empowering young people. According to him, the future of Rwanda's economy depends on giving youth the skills and opportunities to start their own businesses.

“We want to help young people become capable entrepreneurs,” he said. “When businesses grow, they create jobs—not only for themselves but for the entire community.”

He also highlighted the need to improve service industries such as hospitality. While Rwanda already has many hotels and service businesses, he believes there is still room to strengthen the quality of services offered.

The new leadership plans to build on the achievements of the previous committee, which had already reached about 70 percent of its goals. Twagirumukiza hopes the new team will push that progress closer to 90 percent.

His deputy, Jean Claude Uwizeyemungu, echoed the importance of collaboration. He noted that no country can achieve sustainable development without a strong private sector.

“Our role is to create jobs, increase the number of businesses in Rwanda, and expand trade beyond our borders,” he said.

He also stressed that PSF serves as a bridge between entrepreneurs and the government—a platform where business challenges can be discussed and solutions developed.

Meanwhile, Second Vice President Diane Mukasahaha Kamanzi emphasized the role of women and youth in economic transformation. She believes that entrepreneurship should not be limited by starting capital.

“Someone can start with very little and still achieve great dreams,” she said.

Mukasahaha hopes the next three years will demonstrate that young people and women are powerful drivers of economic change. In an increasingly globalized world, she encourages Rwanda's youth to think beyond national borders and seize international opportunities.

Founded in 1999, the Private Sector Federation was created to bring together Rwanda's entrepreneurs and advocate for their interests. After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the country needed institutions capable of rebuilding the economy and encouraging private investment. PSF became one of those institutions, working closely with the government to promote business growth and economic recovery.

Today, the federation operates from grassroots levels in local communities all the way to the national stage. It promotes job creation, supports investment, and organizes the annual international trade fair Expo, which attracts businesses from Rwanda and around the world.

As the new leadership begins its three-year mandate, expectations are high. For Twagirumukiza, however, the mission remains simple: empower entrepreneurs, create opportunities, and ensure that Rwanda's private sector continues to grow.

From a young teacher who once entered business with nothing but hope, to the leader of Rwanda's largest business federation, his story reflects the possibilities that determination—and the right environment—can create.

Rwanda Industrial Output Climbs 8.2% as Energy and Beverages Lead

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-04T20:35:28Z

Rwanda's industrial output grew 8.2% year-on-year in December 2025, driven largely by gains in electricity generation and beverage manufacturing, the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) said in its Index of Industrial Production released on Feb. 4.

The NISR report showed the industrial sector's average growth for 2025 at 6.5%, reflecting continued expansion across energy, manufacturing and mining. The energy sector recorded the strongest performance, with electricity generation up 13.3%, while water and waste management activities increased 8%.

Manufacturing output rose 5.5%, supported by a 9.7% jump in beverages and tobacco production and a 9% rise in textiles, clothing and leather goods. Mining and quarrying also expanded, growing 4.8%.

However, the data showed pockets of weakness. Food processing declined 2%, and manufacturing of metal products, machinery and equipment fell 1.2%, indicating that industrial growth remains uneven and vulnerable to supply-chain constraints.

“Rwanda's industrial growth is becoming more diversified, but the sector still needs more capacity in financing and logistics to sustain momentum,” said Amos Butera, senior business analyst at Inner Consult Inc. in an interview with Vision Media. “The energy gains are positive, but industrial policy must support downstream value addition if growth is to broaden.”

Butera noted that for investors the figures reinforce Rwanda's push to build a stronger manufacturing base and reduce reliance on imports. Improved energy output can lower operating costs for factories and support export-focused production. The growth in beverages and textiles also supports Kigali's strategy to expand value-added manufacturing.

Yet the decline in food processing and machinery production highlights ongoing challenges. The key question for policymakers is whether Rwanda can sustain industrial momentum by addressing bottlenecks in logistics, financing and domestic demand.

Rwanda Moves to Break Into Pakistan's Growing Coffee Market

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-01T10:22:50Z

Rwanda is positioning itself to expand agricultural exports to Pakistan by introducing Rwandan coffee to a market that already imports large volumes of the country's tea, officials said.

Claude Bizimana, chief executive officer of the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), said the move builds on Rwanda's long-standing tea trade with Pakistan, which is currently the largest buyer of Rwandan tea through international auctions. Rwanda now aims to tap into Pakistan's expanding coffee consumption as part of its export diversification strategy.

To advance this goal, NAEB, in collaboration with the Rwandan Embassy in Pakistan, organized a two-day coffee exhibition on Jan. 29–30, 2026. The event was designed to showcase the quality and distinctiveness of Rwandan coffee while strengthening trade and investment links between the two countries.

Speaking to media, Bizimana said Pakistan presents a strategic opportunity for Rwanda's coffee sector. “Pakistan is the leading buyer of Rwandan tea. We entered the coffee exhibition with two main objectives: to strengthen existing trade ties and to introduce our coffee to a market where consumption is increasing rapidly,” he said.

Beyond coffee promotion, NAEB is also seeking to engage Pakistani tea buyers to encourage them to purchase tea directly from Rwanda rather than sourcing it through the port of Mombasa, Kenya. Officials say this would improve efficiency and returns for Rwandan producers.

Bizimana said the exhibition drew strong interest from business representatives, with many visitors sampling Rwandan coffee and expressing interest in future partnerships. He added that increasing agricultural exports aligns with Rwanda's broader economic development strategy, contributing to national growth and improving farmers' incomes.

The exhibition was attended by senior government officials and private-sector representatives, including Rwanda's ambassador to Pakistan, Fatou Harerimana; Minister of Trade and Industry Prudence Sebahizi; NAEB leadership; and traders from various sectors.

Coffee remains one of Rwanda's most important export commodities. In 2025, coffee exports earned more than 216 billion Rwandan francs, up from over 129 billion francs in 2024. NAEB data show Rwanda exported 23,860 metric tons of coffee in 2025, compared with 17,142 metric tons the previous year, underscoring the sector's rapid growth.

Rwanda Revenue Authority Urges Compliance With Jan. 31 Tax Deadline

Mugisha R. John — 2026-01-27T13:24:12Z

The Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has reminded taxpayers to comply with the Jan. 31, 2026 deadline for declaring and paying key taxes, urging businesses and property owners to act early to avoid last-minute challenges.

The deadline applies to business operators required to pay the annual trading license tax, commonly known as patente, for the 2026 tax year, as well as owners of rented immovable property who must declare and pay tax on rental income earned in 2025.

Karasira Ernest, RRA's Assistant Commissioner in charge of provincial and decentralized Revenue division, said delaying compliance until the final day often creates unnecessary difficulties for taxpayers.

“We encourage those concerned to declare and pay early,” Karasira said. “Waiting until the last day usually leads to challenges, whether related to system congestion or accessing assistance when many taxpayers seek services at the same time.”

The trading license tax applies to anyone who has started or is operating a business in a district, including small and micro-businesses that have completed two years of tax exemption. The tax amount is determined based on whether the taxpayer can demonstrate their total turnover from the previous year.

Taxpayers may choose to pay the trading license tax annually or in quarterly installments. Those opting for annual payment must declare and pay by Jan. 31, 2026. For quarterly payments, the first installment must also be declared by the same date. Subsequent payments are due by April 30, July 31 and Oct. 31, 2026.

RRA said that in its electronic declaration system, selecting the first quarter commits a taxpayer to quarterly payments, while selecting the fourth quarter indicates payment of the full annual amount.

Declarations can be made through the RRA online portal under the section for decentralized taxes using a taxpayer identification number, or through the *800# mobile phone service.

Rental income tax applies to individuals and companies that own immovable property rented out in Rwanda. The tax is charged on income from rented houses, whether fully or partially rented, as well as income from any other rented immovable property in the country.

Under the law, RRA allows a standard deduction of 50% of total annual rental income to cover maintenance and related expenses. Interest paid on bank loans used to acquire or develop rental property is also deductible.

Rental income tax rates are set at 0% for annual income up to 180,000 Rwandan francs, 20% for income between 180,001 and 1 million francs, and 30% for income exceeding 1 million francs.

Karasira urged taxpayers to comply early and avoid waiting until the last minute.

Rwanda, Jamaica Stock Exchanges Forge Partnership

Mugisha R. John — 2026-01-26T15:05:45Z

Rwanda and Jamaica are strengthening financial ties after their stock exchanges signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at deepening collaboration between the two markets.

The Rwanda Stock Exchange and the Jamaica Stock Exchange formalized the agreement at the 21st Regional Investments & Capital Markets Conference held in Kingston. The memorandum outlines plans for shared training, knowledge exchange, market development programs and exploration of cross-listings and new financial products.

“This partnership is about more than documents and meetings; it is about sharing experience, growing together, and opening new doors for businesses, investors, and market professionals in both regions,” said Rwanda Stock Exchange CEO Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba.

Jamaica Stock Exchange CEO Livingstone Morrison said the agreement opens the door for the two markets to learn from each other and create new opportunities for listed companies and the broader financial community.

“We are excited to begin this relationship with the Rwanda Stock Exchange,” Morrison said. “By learning from each other and sharing best practices, we believe we can create meaningful opportunities for our markets, our listed companies, and our wider financial communities.”

The memorandum reflects a shared vision of sustainable market growth, innovation and international cooperation. Both exchanges said the collaboration is expected to strengthen their respective markets while creating stronger links between Africa and the Caribbean.

The Rwanda Stock Exchange was established in 2005 and currently lists more than 100 securities, including 10 equities, Treasury bonds and corporate bonds. The Jamaica Stock Exchange, founded in 1968 and launched in 1969, is one of the largest exchanges in the Caribbean by market capitalization.

The agreement marks a new chapter in cooperation between the two exchanges, as they seek to build modern, competitive capital markets through shared expertise and international partnerships.

Rwanda Earns Nearly $14 Million From Agricultural Exports in Five Days

Mugisha R. John — 2026-01-26T14:28:47Z

Rwanda earned nearly $14 million from agricultural and livestock exports between Jan. 19 and Jan. 23, 2026, the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) said Monday.

The five-day export period generated $13.95 million, equivalent to more than 20 billion Rwandan francs, NAEB said, reflecting strong demand for Rwanda's agricultural products in global markets.

The exported goods included coffee, tea, vegetables, fruits, flowers and livestock products, shipped to countries in Europe, the Middle East, the United States and across Africa.

Coffee was the top export during the period, with 897 metric tons shipped and revenue of $5.95 million. Tea exports totaled 882 metric tons and earned $2.5 million.

Vegetables amounted to 241 metric tons, generating $319,800. The United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Spain were the leading destinations for Rwandan vegetables.

Fruits were mainly exported to European markets, with the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany and France among the top importers. Rwanda also shipped fruits to several African countries during the same week.

Rwanda exported 15 metric tons of flowers, earning $81,563. The Netherlands and the United Kingdom were the main destinations for the flower exports, according to NAEB.

Livestock products accounted for 222 metric tons, generating $381,773. Most were shipped to African countries and cross-border trade partners.

In addition, Rwanda exported 7,635 metric tons of various other products, earning $4.1 million. The United States and Oman were the leading destinations for these goods.

NAEB said the figures highlight Rwanda's efforts to diversify export markets and strengthen agricultural value chains, sectors that remain crucial for the country's economy and foreign exchange earnings.

Kenyan investors impressed by Rwanda's business opportunities on trade mission

Mugisha R. John — 2025-11-27T11:46:49Z

A group of Kenyan investors left Rwanda impressed by the abundance of business opportunities during a three-day trade mission organized by Equity Group.

The 15 Kenyan delegates were part of a larger cohort of 300 participants from 30 countries who toured Rwanda's key economic, industrial, and innovation hubs. They represented 17 sectors, including banking and financial services, retail and e-commerce, agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing, construction, energy, healthcare, ICT, and tourism.

The mission aimed to unlock cross-border business opportunities, strengthen regional economic ties, and provide networking platforms for investors. It combined high-level discussions, panel dialogues, and B2B engagements with site visits to showcase Rwanda's economic transformation.

Delegates toured UFACO Ltd and DIKAM Ltd, leading textile manufacturers supporting the country's efforts to build a competitive garment and apparel industry. At PHARMALAB Ltd, they observed Rwanda's growing pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities, designed to reduce import dependence and strengthen local healthcare resilience.

A visit to the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture offered insight into how the country is training the next generation of agribusiness leaders through research-driven, conservation-focused farming education. Delegates also visited Inyange Industries, Rwanda's top agro-processing company, known for dairy, juice, and bottled water products, which highlighted advanced processing technology and a farmer-inclusive sourcing model.

The day concluded at DP World Kigali, a modern logistics and inland port facility that demonstrated efficient cargo handling, customs clearance, and warehousing systems, positioning Rwanda as a regional gateway for trade. Delegates praised Rwanda's investor-friendly environment.

The trade mission concluded with participants leaving the country with practical insights into Rwanda's strategic investments in manufacturing, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and human capital development.

The next phase will see delegates continue in Kenya, engaging in business forums and sectoral visits, as Equity Group facilitates cross-border trade, enterprise growth, and regional economic integration.

Global Awards Open Doors for Rwanda's Boldest Young Entrepreneurs

Administrator — 2025-10-16T16:25:47Z

A new global award scheme has been launched to recognize the world's most promising early-stage entrepreneurs, giving founders across Africa, including Rwanda, a platform to showcase their ideas alongside peers worldwide.

The Investec Early-Stage Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (The Investec Easies), powered by OPUS, are the first awards designed to spotlight founders at the very beginning of their journey. The awards are open to founders leading companies under four years old and pre-Series A.

Only a small fraction of the estimated 305 million businesses formed each year reach significant scale. The Investec Easies aim to uncover the boldest ideas before founders achieve market exit or large-scale growth.

In partnership with Investec Wealth & Investment International and Endava, a publicly listed technology services company, the awards offer prizes across four categories: Impact, Consumer, Technology, and Female Founder. Winners will receive a £10,000 cash prize, membership in the OPUS founder ecosystem, global media visibility, and a seat at the World Economic Forum in Davos with the OPUS Delegation.

The winners will be decided through a combination of public votes and a panel of international judges spanning capital, culture, and entrepreneurship. Judges include Imtiaz Patel, former CEO of MultiChoice Group; Maxine Gray, Head of Strategy and Implementation at Investec; Lyndon Subroyen, Group Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Investec; Alastair Lukies CBE, Chief Engagement Officer at Endava; Kristen McLeod CBE, Chief Strategy Officer of British Business Bank; Erin Platts, CEO of Octopus Ventures; and Marc Porat, founder of General Magic.

“For founders at this stage, much of the work happens in the shadows,” said Sam Tidswell-Norrish, Founder and Chair of OPUS. “The Investec Easies reward the audacity to begin, not just the ability to scale. Every story starts with a leap of courage—the idea scribbled on a napkin, the risky quit from a stable job, the first late-night coding session. Those sparks of possibility are rarely recognized, yet they are the beating heart of entrepreneurship. With The Investec Easies, we want to celebrate those sparks because they are where the future is born.”

Applications are now open at www.theeasies.com. Founders leading companies under four years old and pre-Series A are invited to apply before 5 November 2025. The application process takes just a few minutes and is designed to be accessible to anyone at the start of their entrepreneurial journey.

Aterian PLC Invests $325,000 to Expand Coltan Trading in Rwanda

Administrator — 2025-09-30T15:47:35Z

Aterian PLC has secured US$325,000 to expand its coltan trading operations in Rwanda, aiming to boost local mining activities and create economic opportunities.

The funding, raised with a global minerals trading partner, will help the company scale operations and strengthen its commitment to responsibly sourced minerals. Aterian also issued new investor warrants, signaling confidence in growth prospects.

With operations primarily in Rwanda, Aterian focuses on coltan — a critical mineral used in electronics — and emphasizes environmental and social compliance. The company aims to become a major supplier of ethically sourced minerals from Central Africa, contributing to Rwanda's mining sector and local employment.

RRA Says No Grace Period After Half Fail to File Second Advance Income Tax

Administrator — 2025-09-30T15:30:54Z

The Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) warned Tuesday that it will not extend the deadline for the second installment of advance income tax for 2025, as half of the taxpayers had not filed by the Sept. 30 cutoff.

Jean Paulin Uwitonze, RRA's Deputy Commissioner in charge of Taxpayer Services and Communication, said long queues were observed at tax offices across the country as many rushed to file at the last minute.

“People often wait until the very last minute to declare, which leads to long lines. At times, the system processes up to 50,000 declarations at once, causing technical challenges,” Uwitonze said.

He added that last-minute filers frequently require additional assistance, putting extra pressure on staff.

Uwitonze stressed that those who miss the deadline will face penalties. “For small taxpayers, a first-time non-declaration results in a Rwf 50,000 fine,” he said, adding that late payments incur interest charges in addition to fines.

The RRA continues to encourage taxpayers to use online platforms and file early to avoid last-minute congestion and ensure compliance.