Editor,

Refer to the story, "Govt urges manufacturers to tap into Made-in-Rwanda” (The New Times, December 1).

Parallel to encouraging consumption, I think and here re-state my proposal that, more urgently, our Government should encourage a more systematic conception of Made-in-Rwanda products.

Just a quick look at the quality of items exposed at the ongoing Made-in-Rwanda expo 2017, it definitely seems that, prior to manufacturing, there is a need for a high learning institution with a mandate to start, right now, a Product Quality Research and Development programme in the country. The quality of Made-in-Rwanda products would ensure long-term returns and also quickly help close the gap between our Imports/Exports balance. This task cannot be left in the hands of the manufacturers alone!

Francois-X. Nziyonsenga