Belgian, City of Kigali Officials Highlights Importance of Trade and Investment between two Countries
Belgian Investors during the Trade and Investment Forum in Kigali
By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU
Kigali, Rwanda– In a significant gathering aimed at fostering economic collaboration between Rwanda and Belgium, Laurent Preud’homme, Charge d’Affaires and Head of Development Cooperation at the Belgium Embassy, recently welcomed representatives from both nations at the Investment and Trade Business Forum held in Kigali.
Opening the event, Preud’homme emphasized the historical significance of trade, remarking, “Trade has existed almost since man has existed. We need trade to survive and access everything we require to lead fulfilling lives.”
He acknowledged the dual nature of trade, which, while having the potential to incite conflict, can also be a beautiful force that creates interdependence and understanding among nations.
Highlighting the current state of trade between the European Union and Rwanda, Preud’homme pointed out that EU trade remains modest compared to other global players like China and India, currently making up 6% of Rwanda’s exports, while the EU supplies 7% of Rwanda’s imports.
Notably, Belgium emerged as the leading importer of Rwandan goods among EU countries in 2023 and stands as the third-largest overall importer to Rwanda.
Preud’homme noted that Belgian investment is robust in Rwanda, with Belgian businesses representing 30% of new European enterprises established in the country, showcasing Belgium’s commitment to Rwanda’s economic development.
He stressed the importance of long-term partnerships, stating, “If you want to create good partnerships, if you want a win-win situation, you have to be here for the long term.”
The forum featured the presence of 15 Belgian and Flemish companies from diverse sectors including culture, construction, engineering, and high-tech services, keen on exploring opportunities and establishing connections with local Rwandan businesses.
In his speech, the City Mayor Mr. Samuel DUSENGIMANA emphasized that Kigali has evolved into a competitive metropolis, characterized by innovation, infrastructure development, and a commitment to sustainability. “Our city story is one of resilience, ambition, and progress,” he stated, highlighting the significant strides made in positioning Kigali as a desirable investment destination.
The Mayor shared insights into the updated Kigali Master Plan of 2020, which aims to address global challenges such as real estate valuation and building code standardization.
He expressed openness to collaboration, inviting potential investors to explore opportunities in affordable housing and urban development.
“We have affordable land available for investment, and our one-stop cente can assist with information and permitting,” he noted.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to affordable housing, Mayor Samuel spoke of initiatives such as the re-housing project, designed to engage residents in urban development discussions. “We have close to 10,000 hectares ready for development, and the demand is high,” he remarked, underscoring the city’s proactive approach to meeting housing needs.
The forum also focused on Kigali’s urban planning capacity, which emphasizes inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability.
The Mayor outlined plans for integrating residential, commercial, and industrial spaces to foster a vibrant urban ecosystem.
He reiterated Kigali’s dedication to climate change initiatives, promoting green transport, and urbanization for future generations.
In conclusion, Mayor Samuel expressed confidence that the Investment and Trade Business Forum would foster new collaborations and drive growth, creating opportunities that strengthen ties between Rwanda, Belgium, and Europe.
He extended warm wishes to attendees for the holiday season, emphasizing the city’s commitment to a prosperous and innovative future.
As Kigali continues its journey of transformation, the Mayor’s call for investment and collaboration reflects the city’s vision of becoming a leading urban center that champions innovation and quality of life for all its residents.
