Equity Group has organised a three-day trade mission in Kigali, attracting more than 300 participants, including over 65 international delegates from over 20 countries, to explore and unlock business opportunities in Rwanda and the wider East African region.

The mission, from November 23 to 26, which includes 15 participants from Kenya and representatives from markets such as India, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, South Africa, and the United States, aims to strengthen economic ties, facilitate investor–partner connections, and position Rwanda as a strategic gateway for regional expansion.

Covering 17 sectors ranging from finance and agribusiness to ICT, energy, and manufacturing, the mission features networking sessions, site visits, and industry dialogues designed to catalyse cross-border collaboration and support both large enterprises and SMEs seeking growth in Rwanda’s dynamic economy.

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Equity Bank Rwanda Managing Director, Hannington Namara, emphasised that the Rwanda investment roadshow is designed to build trust, strengthen business relationships, and spark collaboration among regional and international investors.

He noted that bringing private-sector players together creates an environment where new ideas, partnerships, and market opportunities can emerge, while also enabling dialogue on policy issues with government representatives present.

"This roadshow is a platform that deepens partnership and channels capital towards impactful ventures across East Africa, which positions investors, partners, and equity at the centre of regional trade investment transformation; this will play a role in accelerating growth and creating long-lasting business connections,” he said.

Namara added that the two-day mission will include sector-focused discussions, site visits, and facilitated introductions for delegates seeking to explore Rwanda’s business landscape, with Equity ready to support continued engagements even beyond Kigali as the delegation proceeds to Kenya.

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In his keynote address, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Antoine Kajangwe, highlighted Rwanda’s progress in establishing one of Africa’s most stable and pro-business environments, supported by sound governance, modern infrastructure, and policies designed to facilitate trade and economic growth.

He noted that sectors such as manufacturing, ICT, agribusiness, and services are expanding rapidly, creating diverse opportunities for sustainable investment.

"Rwanda is increasingly becoming an ideal platform for regional expansion, and innovation and public-private partnership are essential to this shared success. That being said, I believe today is an opportunity for meaningful exchanges that can unlock new partnerships and advance sustainable growth,” he said.

Kajangwe reiterated the government’s readiness to support investors seeking to build or expand their footprint in Rwanda and the region.

"We welcome you to explore the abundant opportunities Rwanda offers and to leverage the strength of our regional community,” he added.

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Eric Rutabana, the commercial director at Equity Bank, highlighted that Equity Group’s trade missions are designed to link businesses across continents, giving local enterprises access to global partners and new growth opportunities.

He explained that each mission brings together companies from multiple regions to collaborate directly with local industries and explore areas of mutual benefit.

"Our goal is to help businesses find partners, access new markets, and scale more effectively, and this year’s forum is exceptionally diverse, which is what opens new avenues for future partnership and new markets for Rwandan products,” he said.

He also pointed out that several international firms have expressed interest in establishing a presence in Rwanda, a move he said would strengthen local value chains and create employment opportunities.

"Many participants are not just exploring partnerships; they are looking at Rwanda as a place to set up and grow,” he remarked.

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Steve Maina, representing Kenya’s Central Highlands Tea, said the roadshow offered a valuable chance to explore regional opportunities and connect with businesses from multiple markets.

He noted that the forum enabled international delegates to gain a better understanding of Rwanda’s business environment and identify areas for potential collaboration.

"This trade mission helped us see where we can do business and meet partners from other countries, for instance, I learned that it takes six hours to register a company in Rwanda, which is an impressive advantage,” he said.

He remarked on Kigali’s transformation since his last visit, describing the city as vibrant and rapidly expanding.

Sara Yisehak Teklu, an Ethiopian investor based in Kigali, said the forum offered valuable exposure to diverse businesses, policies, and emerging opportunities in Rwanda, emphasising that such platforms are essential for strengthening networks and supporting long-term business growth.

"It’s a great opportunity to meet different businesses and understand the opportunities available, and I applaud Equity for creating a family and coming to us, connecting us, and giving us a platform to engage,” she said.