The Senatorial Standing Committee on Economic Development and Finance, over the course of the week, visited Sovu in Huye town to assess the status of industrial development.

The area was identified as one of eight district industrial parks.

It was the second countryside visit this week, which also took the senators to Rusizi, focusing on assessing status of district industrial parks’ development.

In Sovu industrial park, the lawmakers were accompanied by Eugene Muzuka Kayiranga, the mayor of Huye, security officials and businesspeople.

They assessed the implementation of the industrial master plans, anticipated roles in contributing to citizens’ welfare, partners' roles, and infrastructure including water, power and roads.

Senator Jacqueline Muhongayire, the chairperson of the committee, said there is need to fast-track the implementation of industrial master plans.

"Executing the building of the industrial parks should be prioritised. They will address youth unemployment, while serving the interests of citizens and investors. These industries will also help the country to manufacture Made-in-Rwanda products to foster economic growth,” Muhongayire said.

Up to 25 industrial plants are earmarked for Huye’s Sovu industrial park.

At least 316 households in the area were relocated to pave way for the industrial redevelopment.

Mayor Kayiranga said there is need for mobilisation and coordination of all partners to accelerate development.

"All partners, including citizens and local industrialists, should work together to speed up the policy implementation in order to attract regional and international investors to,” he said.

Theoneste Munyaneza, the head of Karunda Rice Industry, cited financial constraints among the challenges slowing the industrial zones’ policy implementation.

Advising industrialists to seek loans, he noted that once completed the industrial area will increase local products manufacturing.

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