A new temperature-controlled packhouse facility owned by Cold Solutions Rwanda has begun operations in Kigali, marking a significant step toward reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening Rwanda’s horticulture export value chain. The facility, which has been operational for just over a month, is part of a broader regional cold chain network and is expected to improve how temperature-sensitive produce is handled from farm to export. It has a capacity to handle over 620 tonnes of fresh produce. “This is a big step for Rwanda,” said Susan Njuguna, who heads operations and quality assurance at the company. “The industry is still young but growing very fast. To access export markets and maximise value, there are key requirements that must be met, especially around the cold chain.” Horticultural exports, ranging from fruits to vegetables, are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Without proper handling, significant quantities are lost before reaching international markets. Njuguna said the facility is designed to address exactly that challenge. “Temperature control is critical across the entire chain, from harvesting and handling to export. We are providing that solution to our clients,” she noted. Inside the facility A walk through the facility reveals a fully insulated system designed to maintain consistent temperatures at every stage. From the parking area to dispatch zones, the infrastructure is built to prevent temperature fluctuations that can compromise product quality. The packhouse is equipped to handle large volumes and tailored to meet varying temperature needs for different horticultural products. “What we are doing is ensuring precise temperature targeting,” Njuguna explained. “Different products require different ranges, and we have the capacity to accommodate that.” Beyond infrastructure, the company is also prioritising compliance with global food safety standards, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) and Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS) certifications, key requirements for accessing international markets. Part of a broader regional strategy According to Julie Igiraneza, Commercial Director at Cold Solutions, the Kigali-based facility is just one component of a much larger investment strategy across East Africa. “We are building more than a single facility, we are building a system,” she said. “Cold Solutions operates across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Mombasa, and Rwanda is a key part of that regional network.” She noted that while similar infrastructure is common in Europe and North America, it remains limited across much of Africa. “This packhouse is only one part of a bigger vision,” she added. “The main facility we are developing, valued between $25 million and $30 million, will bring together storage, handling, and logistics under one integrated platform.” Igiraneza said the decision to fast-track the packhouse came directly from market demand. “Clients were already asking for these services. There was an urgent need, especially from exporters who were struggling with post-harvest losses and inconsistent quality due to gaps in the cold chain.” Beyond horticulture, the company is targeting a wide client base, including food manufacturers, hospitality businesses, and pharmaceutical players, through temperature-controlled storage that ranges from ambient conditions to as low as -40°C. Tackling losses, enabling trade At the core of the investment is a long-standing challenge: food loss. “There is a lot of food lost after harvest due to poor handling and lack of [the right] infrastructure,” Igiraneza said. “What we are doing is bridging that gap, providing reliable systems that preserve quality and extend shelf life.” The facility is supported by refrigerated transport, ensuring that the cold chain is maintained from farms to the packhouse or local markets and onward to the export markets. The company does not trade in produce but instead provides infrastructure and services to enable producers and exporters to meet international standards. “Our role is to make sure our clients don’t lose market opportunities because of quality or compliance issues,” she added. “We want products coming out of Rwanda to compete globally.” Building an integrated platform For investors, the Kigali packhouse represents the first phase of a long-term strategy to build a fully integrated cold chain ecosystem. “The opening of our 1,400 square metre packhouse in Kigali is an important milestone,” said Fredd Kambo, Managing Director of ARCH Emerging Markets Partner. “It marks the beginning of a modern, integrated cold chain platform in Rwanda, one that brings together handling infrastructure and dedicated logistics services to support intercity, long-haul, and cross-border movement of temperature-sensitive goods.” Kambo emphasised that the project goes beyond a single facility, forming part of a scalable investment platform. “This is Phase One of a broader vision. With the planned launch of a 4,000-pallet position temperature-controlled warehouse in 2027, we are laying the foundation for an end-to-end solution that supports horticulture, food systems, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors that rely on cold chain integrity.” He said such investments are critical not only for business growth but also for national development outcomes. “High-quality cold chain infrastructure plays a key role in reducing post-harvest losses, improving supply chain efficiency, and supporting regional trade. It also creates long-term value for producers, exporters, and consumers.” Kambo added that Rwanda’s strategic positioning and policy environment made it an attractive market. “We see Rwanda as a key hub in the region, and we are committed to building infrastructure that supports its growth ambitions.” The project is backed by ARCH Emerging Markets Partners through its Cold Solutions East Africa platform. Government backing and expansion plans The investment has been supported by Rwanda Development Board, which facilitated business registration and access to land in Kigali Special Economic Zone. Despite challenges in securing flat land due to Rwanda’s terrain, the company began groundwork in early 2023 and is now progressing toward its larger development. Expansion plans are already underway, with new sites expected in Bugesera and Rubavu districts. While current capacity does not yet meet full demand, officials say future phases could cover up to 80 per cent of market needs. Beyond infrastructure For Azhar Rifai, Cold Solutions Rwanda Managing Director, the Kigali-based facility represents more than just a physical investment. “This milestone marks a defining moment in bringing our packhouse vision to life,” he said. “It reflects our ambition to set new benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and innovation within the industry.” As construction of the main facility continues, Rifai said the focus is on long-term impact. “We are building more than infrastructure; we are shaping the future of our operations and unlocking long-term value for our partners and stakeholders.” ALSO READ: Cold chains: The missing link in food security and agricultural value ALSO READ: Rwanda eyes regional hub status in sustainable cooling and cold-chain systems
