The 21-day Kigali Youth Projects Exhibition that started on January 10 features a variety of innovative projects by young entrepreneurs. The exhibition held at Kigali Car Free Zone showcases youth-driven initiatives aimed at addressing societal challenges and contributing to Kigali's development. ALSO READ: Why youth should be at the centre of development programmes Here are five standout projects at the show: Recycling This project focuses on recycling discarded cartons to create new eco-friendly cardboard materials. It aligns with Rwanda's push to eliminate plastic bags and protect the environment. By reducing waste, creating jobs, and saving costs on imported cardboard, the initiative also supports national economic growth. The company behind the project plans to expand its market share and establish collection points by 2028. Producing useful products from cow horn Another notable project uses cow horns to create furniture, jewellery, and decorative items. Initiated in 2020 by Didius Hategekimana , in Kicukiro District, the company began with simple jewellery and now produces decorations, jewellery, and furniture, including tables and chairs. He sells the products in the country and exports to France and USA. The project helps address environmental concerns by preventing the disposal of cow horns, which would otherwise contribute to pollution. ALSO READ: Rwanda public institutions urged to procure eco-friendly goods, services Health screening app An AI-powered health app enables users to track medical treatment, monitor disease spread, and receive consultations. It allows users to conduct self-checkups, consult preferred doctors, and request home-based medical care, streamlining healthcare services and providing quick solutions for everyday health needs. Soap from moringa and coconut Thousand Hills Business, represented by Bernard Habiyaremye, started a soap-making venture in 2024 to address skincare issues using natural ingredients like moringa, coconut, and turmeric. Their soaps, which are effective for treating skin rashes and conditions, are affordable and have become popular among locals and visitors. The company also engages the youth by offering soap-making lessons and creating job opportunities. Based in Gikondo Sector, Kicukiro District, their aim is to make their products widely accessible. ALSO READ: Skin care: It pays to mind what you use on your face Olivia Africa, the owner of Skin Paradise Ltd in Kicukiro Sector, Kicukiro District, produces soaps made from coconut, palm, and lavender. Their ingredients help moisturize the skin and prevent dryness. She started the business in 2022 after losing her job in the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. She conducted research online and learned how to make soap. Skin Paradise is now expanding its product line and plans to introduce skin oils to the market. Electric transport services Rugendo Ltd, founded by Romain Muhirwa in 2023, is modernizing Rwanda's transport sector with a digital ticketing system that supports cashless payments. The platform includes features such as Smart Student Boarding, allowing parents and schools to track student transportation, and Rugendo Courille, a parcel delivery service. The initiatives aim to improve convenience, safety, and eco-friendliness in the transport sector. Emma Claudine Ntirenganya, the Spokesperson of the City of Kigali, told The New Times that the exhibition, which began on January 10, is part of the Kigali Youth Festival. It will run for 21 days. “The festival aims to commemorate the heroism of Rwandans and foster national pride, with a closing event on January 31, a day before the official Heroes’ Day on February 1.” As part of the festival, the exhibition showcases youth-led projects and includes various competitions across different disciplines. Ntirenganya explained that there would also be discussions at sector level focusing on the values that should define Rwandan youth. We aim to teach them that engaging in drugs or other harmful behaviours will hinder their success. An alarming rise in HIV cases, especially among young women, is a pressing issue, she noted. Reflecting on Rwanda's history, she pointed out that ancient Rwandans demonstrated heroism through hard work and perseverance. ALSO READ: Celebrating heroism: Rwandan youth urged to uphold cultural values While challenges exist, the youth are the driving force of the country, she added. Ntirenganya believes the exhibition serves as a platform to highlight the achievements of the youth and the impact of their projects, some of which have transitioned from mere ideas to successful ventures providing jobs. The exhibition not only celebrates these accomplishments but also offers opportunities for other youth to gather ideas and insights for their own initiatives. They can connect with officials who can guide them on how to improve their projects, obtain the necessary permits, and secure official documentation, Ntirenganya explained. She said that some young entrepreneurs, initially unaware of the permit process, were able to get assistance from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), helping them understand the steps needed to formalize their products.
