Rwanda’s socio-economic progress has long been shaped by bold decisions, and entrepreneurs are now being called to drive the next chapter of the nation’s development. This was the message from Minister of State for Youth and Arts, Sandrine Umutoni, to entrepreneurs who are part of Business Professionals Network (BPN) programmes during the Entrepreneurs’ New Year’s Cocktail 2026.

Held on Thursday, January 29, at the Mövenpick Hotel under the theme "Architects of Possibility: Think Big, Act Bold,” the event convened hundreds of entrepreneurs, solution-makers, government officials, and representatives from partner organisations to celebrate the contributions of entrepreneurs to Rwanda’s business ecosystem.

"You are architects who design the future and build bold opportunities for the next generations,” Minister Umutoni said. "Every enterprise in this room began as an idea, a belief that a better product, service, or approach was possible. Through courage, discipline, and persistence, you have turned possibility into reality.”

She emphasized that entrepreneurship requires resilience in the face of uncertainty, confidence when others doubt, and boldness when the path is unclear. "Year after year, Rwanda’s entrepreneurs continue to create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen the foundations of our economy,” she added.

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The event also served as a platform for networking and exchanging ideas, with Minister Umutoni reminding participants that the government is committed to policies, partnerships, and programmes that unlock the potential of the private sector. "When entrepreneurs grow, so does Rwanda,” she noted.

Alice Nkulikiyinka, BPN Rwanda’s Country Director, highlighted that entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of personal, professional, and business growth. "There are moments of doubt and pressure, but resilient businesses create dignifying jobs and deliver products and services that improve the well-being of our people,” she said.

Rwanda’s capacity to deliver at high standards was underscored by examples such as successfully hosting a major international cycling event in 2025, demonstrating that vision, discipline, and collective effort make nothing impossible, Nkulikiyinka added.

Data shows that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of Rwanda’s economy, employing over 2.5 million people, contributing roughly 33% to GDP, and accounting for 98% of all businesses. Youth and women are driving forces in this sector, which plays a critical role in trade and services.

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Entrepreneurs at the event shared their experiences of growth through BPN support. Tresor Gashonga, founder of Incuti Foods, described how the organisation helped scale his business from selling 5,000 bottles a month to expanding distribution to 1,200 grocery stores locally and five abroad, while working with over 100 farmers and employing more than 25 people.

Ligobert Uwiduhaye, visual artist and founder of the Studio of African Wildlife Art (SAWA), noted that before joining BPN, he was on the verge of quitting. Through coaching, training, networking, and idea exchange, his studio has strengthened its operations, connecting people to Rwanda’s natural heritage while employing a team of 17, many of whom are women.

"Platforms like BPN matter because entrepreneurship grows through strong networks, not in isolation,” Minister Umutoni concluded, challenging Rwanda’s entrepreneurs to step into 2026 ready to think bigger, act bolder, and shape the country’s future.