Mauritius, a small country of just over one million people, has transformed itself from a sugarcane-based economy into one of Africa’s leading investment hubs. Now, it is directing its attention to Rwanda, as businesses from the island nation explore opportunities in one of the continent’s fastest-growing economies. As a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with strong links to the East African Community (EAC), As a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with strong links to the East African Community (EAC), Mauritius has positioned itself as a gateway for investment into Africa, according to the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Mauritius. The country today accounts for a significant share of foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into the continent and is among the top sources of investment in several African markets, including Kenya. EDB states that this success has been driven by a deliberate shift from a monocrop sugar economy to a diversified model anchored in services and manufacturing — a trajectory that closely aligns with Rwanda’s own economic transformation agenda. ALSO READ: Mauritius among major investors a Rwanda foreign private capital inflows rise by 34% Investors eye Rwanda opportunities Building on this shared vision, the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Mauritius is leading a multi-sectoral delegation of businesses to Rwanda this week to identify and unlock new investment opportunities. The delegation, led by Geerish Bucktowonsing, Director of Manufacturing and Market Access at EDB Mauritius, comprising companies operating in various industries, reflects interest among Mauritian investors in Rwanda’s business environment, reform-driven economy, and expanding market potential. These companies are eager to contribute to the country’s rise, scouting for local opportunities in textiles, chemicals, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), furniture, building and construction materials, and industrial automation. Business forum to drive deals As part of the visit, the delegation will participate in a Business Forum scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Serena Hotel in Kigali. The forum will be followed by business-to-business (B2B) meetings and site visits on Friday, providing a platform for direct engagement with Rwandan partners. The event is organised in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Private Sector Federation (PSF), underscoring a coordinated effort to facilitate investment and partnerships. Registration is free. Click Link Here to Register A partnership of reform-driven economies When Africa’s most efficient economy — Mauritius — joins forces with the continent’s second most efficient — Rwanda — the outcome can only be mutual growth and shared development, EDB observed. This week’s forum marks not just a business event, but a strategic alliance poised to unlock new industrial and investment opportunities across the region. The mission is part of a broader East Africa tour that includes Kenya and Tanzania.
