Expo magazine online

2016

Free Copy

2016

Rwanda business community ready for AU Summit- PSF CEO

Interview with Minister of Trade & Industry

C&H Garments Ltd: Answering Rwanda’s export challenge

I made useful contacts at Expo Pakistani exhibitor

VISION CITY: CREATING LEGACIES, IMPACTING LIVES “By being a part of Vision City, you can be proud, not only of owning a unique home in an exceptional neighborhood, but also of positively impacting the lives of thousands of Rwandan workers, hundreds of whom are women, who worked ti=relessly to make this neighborhood possible.”

- Liliane Uwanziga Mupende, CEO, Ultimate Developers Ltd

“All procedures on this project, from conception, to design, execution and finishing, are in line with best international practices in construction. Residents of Vision City can expect an experience that’s at par with some of the top properties in the world,”

- Pradeep Kumar, Regional Head, Projects, Synergy Property Development Services Ltd, Consultant on Vision City.

“We have used the very best materials during construction of all the Vision City properties to ensure safety, longevity and comfort for the residents.”

- Ricky Wang, Site Manager Vision City, for China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) with CCECC

OWN A PREMIUM HOME

Ultimate Developers Ltd RSSB Building Tower II KN3 Rd. Kigali, Rwanda P. O. Box 5516 Kigali – Rwanda Fax: +250 782 016 168 E-mail: info@ultimatedevelopers.com | Website: ultimatedevelopers.com

monaco café

The perfect hangout in the heart of Kigali

Chill out in an open yet intimate setting Located right in the city centre, on the ground floor of the iconic T2000 building, Monaco Café is perfect for all your social and hospitality needs.

Equipped with a well-stocked bar, café, restaurant and a matchless confectionary, Monaco café’s intimate yet open ambience makes it ideal for meetings, dates, birthday lunches and fun hangouts with friends.

We also have a one-of-a-kind play area for children, so the kids can be entertained as you relax with friends.

Our excellent customer service, delicious meals and affordable prices will keep you coming back again and again.

Visit us today, for an experience you will not forget.

Enjoy great meals from the best chefs in town

Service with a smile

ADDRESS: T2000 Building, City Center Kigali | Tel: 0733 253 788 | 0738 537 129

Monaco Café Confectionary

Indulge yourself at our amazing confectionary section

Monaco Kid’s Paradise

A

t Monaco Café we have created a children’s paradise with a wide selection of games, toys and adventures for children aged three and above.

Our child-friendly and responsible staff will ensure your kids have a good time in a safe environment while you have a meeting, go shopping or simply enjoy a meal with friends.

ADDRESS: T2000 Building, City Center Kigali | Tel: 0733 253 788 | 0738 537 129

Contents 2016

2016

2016

Free Copy

2016

Rwanda business community ready for AU Summit- PSF CEO

Interview with Minister of Trade & Industry

C&H Garments Ltd: Answering Rwanda’s export challenge

08

Foreword by PSF Chairman

10

RIMAS HOLDINGS: VALUE FOR MONEY

09

A word from the Minister of Trade & Industry

12

C&H Garments Ltd: Answering Rwanda’s export challenge

15 AU Section 16 20 27

I made useful contacts at Expo Pakistani exhibitor

Women in Business: Bridging the disparity gap

THE EXpo Magazine TEAM 2016 Edition

Rwanda business community ready for AU Summit Rwandair: Connecting Africa

Content coordinator

Eric Kabeera Head of Communications and Marketing PSF-Rwanda Published by The Link Publications Ltd on behalf of Private Sector Federation.

Private Sector Federation (PSF) P.O. Box 319, Gikondo, Kigali -Rwanda Tel: 2233 or +250 252570650 Email: info@psf.org.rw Twitter: @PSF_Rwanda Website: www.psf.org.rw

4

31 33 40 69

Trade & Industry

Rwanda, Unilever partner to develop tea sites UMWALIMU SACCO: Empowering teachers financially icts providing smart solutions to smes challenges

83 Expo Section 84 90 92 97

Expo fever grips Kigali

Expo to find new home Party at EXPO 2016 I made useful contacts at Rwanda Trade Fair Pakistani exhibitor

© 2016 Private Sector Federation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, except brief extracts for the purpose of review or reference purposes, without the prior permission in writing of the publisher and copyright owner.

Private Sector Federation

Kenya Airways Qatar Airways

PROMOCAR LTD Air Uganda KLM

Turkish owned Airlines company offerPromocar Ltd is a privately Airways ing car hire, tours andSouth travelAfrican services in Rwanda.

It is strategically located at Umubano Hotel in the Kigali suburb of Kacyiru.

Car hire

Car hire

Cell.: (+250) 7 83 93 40 50 Office: (+250) 7 88 34 45 61

Our cars Saloon cars

Promocar has a large fleet of well-serviced and all-terrain Mini jeep vehicles comprising saloon 4 x 4 vehicles cars, four-wheel drive, mini jeeps as well as buses in or- Bus der to cater for the different transportation needs and interests of our esteemed customers cost effectively.

Chauffeur drive services All cars have comprehensive insurance cover and can be Self-drive hired on short or long-term Short term rental basis.

How ?

Long term rental

Cell.: (+250) 7 88 50 66 41 / Office: (+250) 7 88 34 45 61

Tour Packages

Our exciting tour packages cater for the diverse interests of foreign and local tourists seeking to explore Rwanda.

Location, quality services, attractive prices and logistical capabilities distinguish Promocar from other tour and travel companies in the industry.

Air Reservation and Ticketing We handle your air transport reservations for both domestic and international airlines. Some of our partner airlines are Rwandair, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, Air Uganda, KLM, Turkish Airlines and South Africa Airways among others.

Boulevard de l’Umuganda, UMUBANO Hotel, Ground floor Cell: (+250) 788 43 14 06; (+250) 7 88 50 66 41 /Office: (+250) 788 34 45 61 P.O. Box 3920 Kigali - Rwanda E-mail: promocar2012@yahoo.fr | info@promocarrwanda.com / Website: www.promocarrwanda.com

2016

PSF Chairman’s Foreword Gasamagera Benjamin

Dear reader

he Rwanda International Trade Fair, commonly referred to as “EXPO”, is an annual multi-sectoral trade event aimed at opening new markets for exhibitors in Rwanda, the East African region and beyond.

This year’s Expo will be the 19th edition–a two weeks event to run from 27th July-10th August 2016. The number of exhibitors has continued to increase every year. Over 450 companies, both local and from abroad, are expected to showcase their products at this year’s International Trade Fair that officially opens on Thursday 28th July at Gikondo Expo Grounds.

This trade fair is a business platform, a privileged channel for all countries allowing their corporates, small and medium-sized companies to access international markets. This year EXPO presents a key opportunity to meet buyers, importers, and large international business groups from Asia, Middle East, Europe, and the African continent.

In organizing this event, the Private Sector Federation worked closely with the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for sponsorship of Rwanda’s SME’s participants, and our Platinum, Gold and Silver Sponsors to make the undertaking possible.

PSF Management appreciates the efforts of our sponsors in ensuring that Exhibitors are accorded appropriate exhibition space.

8

This year’s Expo comes at a crucial time when

Private Sector Federation

the Rwandan Government embarks on promoting “Made in Rwanda” goods by facilitating the growth of local industries to reduce on importation of goods that are already produced in the country.

As this strategy continues to be implemented, events like RITF 2016 will help to boost competition between Rwandan goods and services to the entire world.

On the success side, some foreign companies which exhibited in the past events have opened new businesses in Rwanda. These include JKK International from Dubai, MUKWANO, Roofing Rwanda Limited, Dodoma, Azania Group, Barkhresa and MOVIT which opened branches in Rwanda.

It is neither by coincidence nor by default that such success stories occur. Rather it’s because of the existing governance system that promotes a conducive and an enabling business environment, championed under the leadership of H.E. Paul Kagame.

Therefore, I would also like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to our stakeholders to the 19th Edition of Rwanda International Trade Fair and commit to helping you further exploit the existing opportunities to do business in Rwanda.

Private Sector Federation commits its support in making the great event a success as we continue working together for a better economic transformation of our private sector.

I do hope you enjoy reading this special issue of The Enterprise Magazine quite as much as we did putting it together.

2016

A word from the Minister

Hon. Francois Kanimba

Minister of Trade and Industry,

s we enter the last five years towards Vision 2020, the ministry of Trade and Industry continues to consolidate the various impactful initiatives that have been made over the past years in order to place the private sector at the forefront of the country’s economic growth.

Initiatives such as the “Made in Rwanda” campaign, the continued fight to eliminate Non-Tariff Barriers to trade, development of the Special Economic Zones and Cross Border Markets, adoption of streamlined Export and Domestic Market Recapturing strategies, and signing of crucial preferential trade agreements with major trading partners of Rwanda like the EU and USA are intended to stimulate trade, improve the country’s balance of payments position, and ultimately, contribute to Rwanda’s vision of reaching middle-income status by 2020.

However, if the gains made in the above-mentioned sectors, as well as in many others, are to bear the intended fruit, Rwanda’s entrepreneurs need to take full advantage of the myriad opportunities that are now open to them.

One way they can do this is by reaching out more aggressively to the domestic and international markets and building useful networks with potential business partners who can help them extend their reach.

It is in this regard that MINICOM continues to partner with the Private Sector Federation to organise the Rwanda International Trade Fair as a unique platform for businesses to reach out to hundreds of thousands of shoppers at the fair with their products and services, and one that helps Rwandan and foreign entrepreneurs to encounter each other and forge mutually beneficial ties.

Finally, the upcoming African Union Summit to be hosted in Kigali from 10-18th July this year should remind the Rwandan business community of the unprecedented market opportunities offered by the increasing liberalization of intra-African trade.

Rwanda is achieving its remarkable economic growth within the context of an entire continent that’s on the ascendancy. Once allied in poverty, African countries now need to ally together in business; for, as the adage says, “Alone, we can go faster; together, we go farther.”

RITF has become a mustattend rendezvous for entrepreneurs, manufacturers and traders from the EAC region and beyond

Private Sector Federation

9

2016

RIMAS HOLDINGS: VALUE FOR MONEY

By Joshua Manase

Rimas holding Ltd is a Rwanda-based company that specializes in retail, leisure and restaurant businesses in Rwanda. Our mission is to combine innovative ideas and realistic solutions, with the principles of affordable and memorable experience in our facilities. Our corporate entities include Safa Bakeries, Woodlands Superstores, Pizza Inn, Chicken Inn, Masters Lounge and Restaurant, K-Club and Discovery Bar, Restaurant and Lounge.

10

Private Sector Federation

oodlands superstore differentiates itself from other supermarkets by featuring many unique cereals and baked products, ranging from specialty breads and pastries to a wide range of cereal selection, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat items and general merchandise. The supermarket also has an in-house bakery to ensure freshness of the baked products.

The focus is on quality, innovation and on-going improvement in prod-

2016

uct selection, customer service and shopping convenience to ensure a high degree of customer satisfaction.

For fast food lovers, Pizza Inn and Chicken Inn is the place to be. The brand has steadfastly become a household name in Rwanda through its sumptuous meals that keep customers wanting more, ranging from Meat deluxe, Hawaiian Pizza, Vegetarian special and more to the crispy and succulent chicken, and burgers. It’s yummy! The fast food chain ensures consistency and hygiene through all its brand and timely service.

If you are looking for a quiet sit down wanting to enjoy good ambience,

high mix of energy drinks and cocktails and finger licking food, then head to Masters Lounge & Restaurant at MTN center where our experienced baristas will brew amazing coffees and teas, iced and more to your amazement from inhouse specials, iced mocha to the more sparkly drinks.

The Chinese menu has also won the hearts of many and the different cooking techniques of the pork have become an all time favorite among our customers.

Experience the new night life in Kigali, by visiting any of our lounges and clubs, K-Club at Nyarutarama, Masters Lounge at MTN center and Discovery club in Nyamirambo where our in-house mixologists will woo you with their flair and mastery of creating mixed and high energy drinks in a high energy environment treating you to the best mix of music in the company of good friends and exceptional service. The journey encompasses live band every Sunday night, Karaoke every Wednesday night, jam rock themed night every Thursday and umuganda special night every last Friday of the month.

Joshua Manase is the Head of Operations, Rimas Holdings Ltd

Private Sector Federation

11

Lead story

2016

c&h Garments Ltd: Answering Rwanda’s export challenge

By Ngabire Emmanuel

A subdued buzz fills the large factory room as hundreds of workers bent over their sewing machines work away with quiet intensity. Standing over a long table at the back of the room, tens of others sort, fold and pile the finished garments in orderly heaps.

Just another day at the office for the highly-skilled workers of C&H Garments Ltd. In a few weeks these first-rate garments will find themselves in Europe, the United States or China and fetch a handsome pile of much needed foreign currency both for the Rwanda-based manufacturer and for the country.

Rwanda currently has a significant trade deficit, with central bank figures indicating that it widened by 12.7 per cent in the first two months of 2016, from $263.55 million to $297.02 million. This was attributed to an increased demand for imports, which rose 7.2 per cent in value, compared to exports which decreased by 9.7 per cent.

In an interview with Expo Magazine, Minister of Trade and Industry, Francois Kanimba admitted that the trade deficit remains a major problem, adding, however, that the government has devised strategies aimed at addressing this problem in order to forestall a critically unsustainable balance of payments situation for the country. “The initiatives will lead to an increase in quantity and quality

12

Private Sector Federation

2016

Lead story of exports as well as recapturing of the domestic market by locally made goods,” the minister said.

Rwanda has identified specific areas in which it feels targeted investment can result in wide-ranging positive ramifications for the economy. One of the areas it zeroed in on is the garments industry.

This choice was far from random.

Explaining why the garments sector, Minister Kanimba said: “In most emerging economies, the first step towards industrialization started with developing the garments and textiles industry. That is where jobs are; and the most diversified developing economies in terms of export-led growth are based on textiles.”

C&H comes to Rwanda

Today, we have a workforce of 500, and the plan is to employ 400 more by the end of July this year to bring the number to 900. Our target is to have 1500 workers by the end of 2016

In July 2014, the Government of Rwanda (GoR) signed an MoU with C&H Garments Company to start the process of creating a garments manufacturing sector with the potential for significant job creation and export impacts for Rwanda.

C&H Garments Ltd, a Chinese-owned garments manufacturer with a growing footprint across the continent, has major plants in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda.

According to the C&H Garments Ltd CEO, Xiaomei Ma, the GoR has been very supportive.

“RDB helped to smooth the process of setting up in Rwanda; MINICOM is renting us the factory premises at a highly subsidized rate; and the Workforce Development Authority (WDA) has assisted us with training workers for the factory,” she reveals.

In March 2015, the company, which specializes in manufacturing of uniforms, officially started production with 200 workers.

“Today, we have a workforce of 500, and the plan is to employ 400 more by the end of July this year to

Private Sector Federation

13

Lead story

2016

bring the number to 900. Our target is to have 1500 workers by the end of 2016,” says Saidi Hitimana, General Manager at C&H Garments Ltd. The company hopes to invest over USD 10m over 5 years, and make an average of USD 10m in sales each year.

Saidi believes companies like C&H garments are the future if Rwanda is to tackle the problem of unemployment, raise the people’s standards of living and uplift the economy as a whole.

“In the first place, factories like C&H contribute to export promotion; and Rwanda gets foreign currency, which is good for the economy. Secondly, they create many jobs.

How many companies can employ over 900 workers?” he asks.

World-class garments made in Rwanda

According to Hitimana, C&H Garments Ltd produces high quality garments for sophisticated markets around the world such as the United States and Europe.

“Government’s target was to maximize export, and so they gave us an EPZ license at the start, which means that we produce 80% for export, and 20% for local use. They facilitate us to achieve this by allowing us import fabric duty free,” Hitimana explains.

Rwandan institutions are also benefiting from having a homebased quality garments manufacturer in their backyard, with C&H already supplying some of them as well.

“We are now working with institutions like RDF, Police, other government institutions,” Hitimana says, adding that this is a small contribution from the company towards Rwanda’s drive to replace import of used clothes starting 2016 with affordable new options.

14

Private Sector Federation

Challenges Nonetheless, the garments sector still faces challenges, the major one being the high cost of transportation.

“The cost of transport is still very high,” Ma says, “and it is a big issue for us because it affects our ability to increase production.”

Another dilemma is the lack of a vibrant textiles industry in the region that produces top quality fabric, forcing the company to import materials from China for the high-specification jobs.

Bright future

In spite of these challenges, the garments manufacturer is optimis-

tic about the future of Rwanda’s garments sector and has ambitious plans going forward.

“This is just the pilot phase of the project. Next year we start the second phase of the project, for which the GoR is already constructing a bigger plant that will employ over 5,000 workers, which means more jobs created for Rwandans,” Hitimana discloses.

Ms. Ma, herself a designer by training, has plans to give Rwanda’s budding fashion industry a push.

“We are working with some Rwandan designers to help them access the best tailoring, and to see how they can sell to a wider market,” she says.

AU SUMMIT SPECIAL -

3500 delegates. 54 Heads of State. 1 Africa Bridging gender gap in business Rwanda business community ready for AU Rwandair: Connecting Africa

African Union Special

2016

Women in Business: Bridging the disparity gap

Participants in the 8th African Union Gender Pre-Summit on 2016 African Year of Human Rights

By Ivan Ngoboka

With the 27th AU summit slated to be held in Kigali, Rwanda between July 1018th under the theme; “2016: African Year of Human Rights, with particular focus on the Rights of Women”, women across the continent will be hoping more can be done to bridge the gender gap, especially in the area of business. uring last year’s summit of the African Union, attending leaders declared 2015; “the Year of Women’s Empowerment” in acknowledgement of the increasing role played by women in Africa’s development.

The declaration was a display of AU’s renewed political commitment and support for the women’s empowerment and gender equality agenda.

16

Private Sector Federation

Since the mid-90’s, African women have made significant strides in the political arena, with Rwanda for instance being a leader globally as far has having the biggest number of women parliamentarians is concerned. Senegal, Seychelles and South Africa have more than 40% each, and Mozambique, Angola, Tanzania and Uganda are not far off, with women occupying over 35% of all parliamentary seats.

According to the 2015 Global Gender Gap Report, which measures gender disparities in 145 countries in four key ar-

2016

African Union Special

eas of economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, political empowerment, 14 out of 28 surveyed countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have closed over 70% of the gender gap, with 3 African countriesRwanda (6), Namibia (16) and South Africa (17)- making the top 20 on the overall index.

Rwanda leading the way

Rwanda has made significant progress in bridging the gender gap across the board.

In addition to the 2015 Global Gender Gap Report ranking cited above (6th globally), reforms in land distribution have led to empowering of women, with current records indicating that 26 per cent of land is owned by women, 18 per cent by men, while 54 per cent is shared by both spouses.

Moreover, more Rwandan women today have access to formal financial services, with the FinScope report 2016 showing an increase in this area from 36.1 per cent in 2013/14 to 63 per cent in 2016.

A Rwandan woman trader

Politically, a 30% affirmative action legal provision has seen Rwandan women attain 64 per cent representation in the Lower House of parliament, and 38% of the Senate. The Judiciary and Cabinet are constituted 43 per cent and 40 per cent by women.

Promoting participation in business

However, more needs to be done to increase women participation in the economic sector, particularly in doing business, with women continuing to lag behind the men in this area.

For instance, a mapping exercise carried out by the Private Sector Federation of Rwanda’s (PSF-Rwanda) Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs indicates that out of a total 154,236 business establishments, 112,700 are owned by males and 41,417 by females.

This means that the share of female owned establishments represents only about 27%.

“More than 60% of surveyed establishments operate in rural areas against 38% that are located in urban areas. Of

More than

60% of surveyed establishments operate in rural areas against

38% that are located in urban areas. Of those located in rural areas,

83% are male owned while only 17% are female owned

those located in rural areas, 83% are male owned while only 17% are female owned,” says the Chief Executive Officer of PSF, Stephen Ruzibiza, adding that this gap needs to be addressed urgently.

However, it is not all bad, women are proven to work effectively even with limited resources, most have a saving culture, and local statistics show they dominate some business sectors like cross-border trade.

“We have more women participating in cross border trade on the Rwanda side, the rate standing at 74%,” remarks the Minister for Trade and Industry, Francois Kanimba.

Supporting women in business

Minister Kanimba says the government is currently modernizing the cross-border market infrastructure to facilitate cross border traders (majority of whom are women) so they do business with fewer hurdles. An example being the ongoing construction of a new cross-border market in Karongi District, expected to boost trade between Rwanda and the DR Congo upon completion early next year.

The Chamber of Women at PSF is also involved in training women on aspects like financial literacy, bookkeeping, tax regulations and access to market information using modern web technologies, and computer literacy.

“We are also lobbying financial institutions to craft financial products that fit the need of women entrepreneurs; this includes preferential interest rates, credit windows, and a special advisory department for them,” Ruzibiza says.

Private Sector Federation

17

GETTING MUCH MORE THAN A ROOM The Hotel features an executive lounge and bar wich opens onto a wide sundeck overlooking the newly refurbished swimming pool THE HOTEL IS IN CENTRAL KIGALI RWANDA, JUST 10KM AWAY FROM KIGALY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Reservations: kigalireservations@serena.co.rw . P. O. Box 7469, Kigali . Tel: +250 252 597100 / +250 788184500 . Fax: +250 252 597101 E-mail: kigali@serena.co.rw . Web: www.serenahotels.com

Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority

Hilltop Hotel & Country Club

Located in Remera, about five minutes from Kigali international airport, Hilltop has an outstanding view of the airport. Hilltop is 15 minutes away from Kigali city centre. With the big and spacious gardens of the hotel, it caters to people who prefer natural spacious places for all sorts of parties.

Remera Airport Road

Tel: +250 788 622 522 | 788 305 120 | 788 541 409

www.caa.gov.rw 50www.kigalihiltophotel.com

African Union Special

Rwanda business community ready for AU Summit Q & A with Stephen Ruzibiza, CEO, Private Sector Federation of Rwanda, on the upcoming AU Summit, PSF’s role in Rwanda’s economic growth and the upcoming Expo, by Ngabire Emmanuel.

As Kigali prepares to host this year’s African Union Summit, what is the significance of such events for Rwanda’s business community, and how is PSF facilitating them to benefit from it?

Such events normally attract political and business leaders, investors and entrepreneurs from across the continent, and other areas of the world.

So this is an opportunity for Rwandan business people to network with the participants creating new opportunities for investment.

20

PSF has organized a social marketing side event showcasing Rwanda’s diverse products and services on offer for the delegates. A booklet is available for delegates to choose popular dine out areas, entertainment, hospitality and also merchandising points.

Rwanda continues to enjoy vigorous growthmore than 7% per annum over the past 15 years.

What role has the private sector played in this entire growth story?

Private Sector Federation

2016

2016

African Union Special

The private sector is now recognized as a pivotal driver of economic growth, which contributes significantly to poverty reduction and improving living standards. In Rwanda, it provides over 95 percent of the total employment including both formal and informal employment. The sector has also been at the forefront in increasing tax revenues. For instance, statistics indicate that in 1998 revenue collections stood at Rwf 62.8 billion and had since increased to Rwf 859.1 billion in 2014/2015.

This has been possible due to continued partnership between the government and private sector to put up effective policies that attract foreign direct investments, create a healthy business environment, and enhance competitiveness in doing business.

Rwanda has been on the forefront when it comes to promoting EAC integration. What has been the role of PSF in ensuring the full participation of Rwanda’s business community in competing at the regional market?

Well, EAC Integration is people-centered and private sector-driven, and this is the only way to deepen integration. I commend Rwanda’s visionary leadership that has influenced the expansion of our market from 11 Million Rwandans to the 145.5 million population of the East African community. This has opened up the market for our locally manufactured goods as well as opportunities to share knowledge with our competitors in the region.

Our role has also been critical especially in pushing for the removal of Non-Tariff Barriers that hamper free movement of goods, labor and

I commend Rwanda’s visionary leadership that has influenced the expansion of our market from

11

Million Rwandans to the 145.5 million population of the East African community.

services and we have already seen many positive outcomes. The number of days it takes to transport a cargo container from Mombasa port to Kigali has drastically reduced from 21 days to 7 days and from 14 to 4 days from Dar-es-Salaam port to Kigali. We also organize various advocacy platforms at both national and regional level where we dialogue with business operators and governments to tap into regional opportunities.

Traders have in the past complained of hindrances to free movement of goods and services across the region. What is the current situation and what has PSF done to eliminate the Non Tariff Barriers to trade?

PSF’s advocacy department plays an important role of advocating for the removal of NTBs, in partnership with other agencies. A recent report from the 20th EAC regional forum on NTBs held in Arusha from 30th March to 1st April 2016 indicates that a total of 98 NTBs have been eliminated cumulatively in the EAC Time Bound Programme from 2009 to March 2016, representing a cumulative rate of 79% resolved NTBs out of all NTBs that have been reported so far. These are mostly related to customs, border posts, and port procedures.

Unfortunately, new NTBs recur and others have mutated. These NTBs are mostly linked to the application of EAC rules of origin, inadequate or lack of information on export/import procedures, arbitrary charges, and administrative procedures as well as stringent technical regulations or standards applied on exports from EAC partner states.

(Cont.d on Pg. 86)

Private Sector Federation

21

Dine at

ZEN

during the African Union Summit 10-18th July Kigali- Rwanda

Just pass MTN Centre Nyarutarama Kigali +250 782 588 593 | +250 733508508. manager@zenkigali.com

Visit Select Boutique Hotel, for state of the art accommodation and a rich dining experience

S

elect Boutique hotel is a Kigali based five-star facility, offering toprate accommodation and a rich dining experience.

Located in the serene, upscale suburb of Kimihurura, the establishment which sits on a lush green tract is armed with a well-stocked

bar, restaurant, wine cellar, and world class accommodation services. Its restaurant prepares international cuisines, courtesy of a U.S trained chef.

Select Boutique Hotel is proud of its diverse collection of French and German wines, with some varieties

spanning more than 8 years in age.

The accommodation comes in four categories namely; standard deluxe rooms, junior suite, junior suite with a balcony and grand suites.

Often referred to as “the best kitchen in Kigali�,

the restaurant focuses on high-quality French and Belgian cuisine, with Rwandan accents here and there. The menu offers a wide array of choices, tastefully customized by our seasoned chef.

From classic meals to reinvented creations, the menu caters to the most diverse of palates.

S.G.E.S-SELECT BP6909 Kigali-Rwanda. | Tel (+250)786098109 RCA: 2319/KIG. | TVA 100321425.

Website: www.selectboutiquehotel.com | Email: info@selectboutiquehotel.com | Tin number 100321425.

Select apartments: Looking for a soothing stay? We are the answer

L

ocated in Nyarutarama, an upscale Kigali residence, the luxurious complex is just a ten minutes drive from the airport.

The villa surrounded by lush vegetation, cuts the look of an elegant upper-class country home, with 8 apartments in total, two of which are single-bedroom; the rest are two-bedroom with balconies that afford you a picturesque view of

Kigali.

The establishment which is close to the Nyarutarama Sports Centre has fully furnished rooms, bathrooms, complete with other accessories like wardrobes, television flat screens and Wi-Fi Internet. Washing, cleaning and security services are also provided.

A one room apartment, costs US$2000 per month while a two room apartment goes for US$3000.

Nyarutarama; KG552; Street Number 2, BP 6909 Kigali-Rwanda. Tel(+250)788300330 l 0788350876|0784751334 Website: www.selectboutiquehotel.com. Email: Selectappart@gmail.com

I.T.A: More than Air tickets...

Exceptional Customer Service

Air ticket booking

Exclusive travel packages

COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL SERVICES International Travel Agency (ITA) is one of the biggest and most experienced travel agencies in Rwanda. We have more than

Processing Dubai Visa

two decades of experience in providing comprehensive travel services, right from planning the perfect itinerary to suit your needs, booking your air ticket, and accompanying you to make sure your experience is flawless.

Award- Winning Service

24-7 SERVICE

OUR RECORD

Our professional and friendly staff are available around the clock to provide you accurate, quality and timely information for all your inquiries.

I.T.A is an approved travel agency by International Air Transport Association (IATA), and has over the years won numerous excellence awards for its exceptional service.

STA TRAVEL: HELPING STUDENTS EXPLORE STA Travel is the world's largest travel company for Students, Youth and Teachers. It was acquired in 2015 as a franchise by International Travel Agency (I.T.A), Rwanda.

We work with our partners around the globe to get you the lowest, most flexible airfares and top-rated affordable accommodations.

Core Products and services: We sell tickets for over 100 Airlines to all parts of the world

and arrange tour packages and tailor-made accommodation for you

Discount Cards: We offer discount cards with fantastic benefits and services world over and in Rwanda.

Other benefits: A robust travel insurance plan; extra security for all our customers world over; Work & Study package for students who have completed school; Language schools.

FIND US: Kigali Office UTC Building, 1st Floor Opposite Kenya Airways Office| P.O.Box 2151 Kigali T: 0788308353/0788303598 | E: ita1travel@yahoo.com/ info@bcdtravel.rw

2016

African Union Special

Rwandair:

Connecting Africa

By Ngabire Emmanuel

W

hether they will have arrived at Kigali International Airport aboard it, or first encountered it looking through their window at the iconic tail of the Rwandair airplanes at the airport, the delegates at the upcoming AU Summit will be familiar with their host country’s national carrier which has grown in the span of a few years to one of Africa’s fastest growing airlines.

For Rwandair CEO, John Mirenge, the biggest contribution of the aviation sector to Africa is providing the connectivity that is so critical to the continent’s economic growth.

“Research has consistently demonstrated that connectivity boosts economic growth,” Rwandair Mirenge says.

It is this intra-African connectivity that

Rwanda’s national carrier has made priority from its very inception.

Today, Rwandair plies more than 16 routes across Africa, including major destinations like Accra, Addis Ababa, Brazzaville, Bujumbura, Dar-es-Salaam, Douala, Dubai, Entebbe, Johannesburg, Kilimanjaro, Lagos, Libreville, Lusaka, Mombasa, Mwanza, Nairobi, Juba, Kamembe, and Kigali (its hub).

John Mirenge, Rwandair CEO

Beleaguered aviation sector

Despite the continent posting remarkable economic growth figures of about 5% over the past decade, IATA statistics for 2015 indicate that the aviation sector has not been able to keep up, with Africa only accounting for 2.2% of the total passenger traffic market shares by region of

Private Sector Federation

27

African Union Special

carriers.

Experts have put this situation down to a number of significant challenges the aviation industry on the continent continues to face.

By far the biggest challenge, the Rwandair boss says, is the lack of liberalization of the continent’s airspace that does not allow operators to maximize the volume of business, thereby affecting the viability of airlines operating on the continent.

“Until we open up our airspace and allow free and unimpeded competition from serious players under no cover of national protectionism, we shall continue to have an extremely underdeveloped aviation sector,” he stresses.

Another bottleneck is the limited investment in air transport infrastructure on the continent.

“It is not uncommon to find run-down runways and airports, and missing key safety features like air traffic control and navigation at many airports in Africa.

Terminals not upgraded for years, making them difficult to navigate,” Mirenge says, adding that this also has safety issues as passengers and airlines need to know an airport is safe if they are to fly there.

The poor regulatory environment also hampers growth of the sector.

“As a result, we have all sorts of planes and operators that have become flying coffins. How else can you explain the

fact that Africa has less than 3% of total air traffic, but accounts for over 25% of all accidents and incidents involving air transport?” he asks.

Finally, remuneration of aviation staff on the continent remains comparatively low, leading to massive brain drain by aviation technicians and professionals to seek greener pastures elsewhere.

Increased investment critical

“If I could talk to the African leaders, I would say: liberalise the airspace; invest more into Aviation infrastructure, and improve on the regulatory environment.

Just these changes would go a long way in transforming the Africa’s aviation industry,” Mirenge says.

The Rwandair boss believes the investment would be worth the effort and, with good management the ramifications for trade would be positive particularly on a continent that is still the least connected in terms of the surface leagues: poor road coverage, little rail and an underdeveloped water transport network.

Projected growth

However, the forecast for the continent’s aviation sector is not at all gloomy.

According to the authoritative IATA Passenger Forecast Report that analyzes passenger flows across 4,000 country pairs for the next 20 years, by 2034 seven of the ten fastest-growing aviation

2016

markets in percentage terms will be in Africa, namely: Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Central African Republic, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia.

Each of these markets is expected to grow by 7-8% each year on average over the next 20 years, doubling in size each decade. Total growth on the African continent will reach 4.7% by 2034, and see an extra 177 million passengers a year for a total market of 294 million passengers.

Rwandair: Soaring ever higher

Rwandair is similarly optimistic about the future, with 2016 set to be another good year as the airline plans to acquire a new fleet and further expand its footprint.

Already owner to one of the youngest fleets on the continent, Rwandair is adding 4 more by wide-body aircraft from 2016-17, allowing its clients an improved experience.

“We are adding the Airbus 330-200 and 300, plus two Boeing737-800s. This will enable us cover long haul flights. For instance, we plan to add Mumbai, India and Guangzhou, China to the routes we operate. In addition to Dubai, these are of special interest, especially for Rwanda’s business community that has a strong historical connection with these destinations,” Mirenge reveals.

Flying the African dream

rwandair.com

Across Africa, Middle East & Asia

Dubai

Mumbai

Khartoum

Abidjan

Lagos

Guangzhou

Juba

Accra Cotonou Libreville

Abuja

Douala

Brazzaville Lusaka

Entebbe Kigali

Nairobi Mombasa

Kilimanjaro Bujumbura Dar es Salaam

Harare

Durban Johannesburg

 (+250) 788177000 (24 hour Service)  info@rwandair.com

Opening soon Current routes

2016

TRADE & INDUSTRY Agri-business. Finance. Real Estate. ICT. Transport Interview with Hon. Minister Francois Kanimba Increased production driving national construction boom PSF, RSB team up to promote product quality

Private Sector Federation

31

Inyange milk is Safe for you No added chemicals

+

Maximum nutrients

12 more quality tests

No harmful bacteria

Over 70 Inyange Milkzone outlets in Kigali

Nation Expor

COME SEE US AT THE EXPO 27TH JULY - 10TH AUGUST 2016

The N Develop under th Pasteurised to preserve nutrients #LoveMilkLoveHealth Animal Hygenically stored @alwaysinyange Inyange Industries Limited National Agricultural Nationa *Inyange milk lasts up to 5 days when refridgerated in a cooler Lasts up to 5 days* Development Board is aimed to improve the ba Export Development Board Economy through increased agricultural exports together three government The National Agricultural Exportagencies responsible fo and cash crop base under one management.

Development Board (NAEB) operates

National under Agricultural the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI). The Export Development National Agricultural Board Export Rwanda coffee “A S

National Agricultural Export Development Board

The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and An excellent way to sta Development Board is aimed improve Animal Resources to (MINAGRI).

The the balance of payment of Rwanda National Agricultural Export combination of high alti Economy through increased agricultural exports.

It was set up by bringing Development Board is aimed to improve the balance of payment of Rwanda The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal volcanic soil that produce Economy through increasedthree agricultural exports. It was set up byresponsible bringing together government agencies for the entire Agriculture Export Resources (MINAGRI).

The National Agricultural Development Board is aimed to Rwanda improve the balancepossesses of payment of together three government agencies responsible for theExport entire Agriculture Export coffee a clean taste and a mix o cashonecrop base under one management. and cashEconomy crop and base through under management.

Rwanda increased agricultural exports.

It was set up by bringing together three government agencies respon-

sible for the entire Agriculture Export and cash crop base under one management.

Rwanda coffee “A Second Sunrise”:

every facet of this wonderful country because the n climate result in one of the finest coffees in the wor

Rwanda coffee “A Second Sunrise”:

Rwandafresh

An excellent way to start the day with the perfect combination of high altitude, cool climate and rich, volcanic soil that produces An a deliciously fragrant coffee. excellent way to start the day with the perfect This is a unique trademark Rwanda coffee possesses a clean taste and a mix of blackberry flavors. It reflects combination high altitude, cool climate and solely rich, Rwandan horticultura every facet of this wonderful country because the nation's volcanic soil andof idyllic climate result in one of the finest coffees in the world.volcanic soil that produces a deliciously fragrant coffee. and traders a spectacular s

showcaseflavors. and sell their produce coffee possesses a clean taste and a mix of blackberry It reflects Rwanda Rwanda coffeeRwandafresh “A Second Sunrise”: Rwandafresh

as a produc “RWANDAFRESH” has been created to complem every facet this wonderful country because nation's volcanic soil and idyllic solely An excellent way to start day withtrademark the perfect combination of This isthe a unique trademark which stands for promoting Thisthe is aof unique which stands for promoting solely Rwandan horticultural products.

It gives producers Rwanda to improve and streamline the country b high altitude, climate cool climate and rich, volcanic soil that produces horticultural products. It gives producers and traders a result in one of the finest coffees inRwandan the world. and traders a spectacular sensation and opportunities to a deliciously fragrant coffee.

Rwanda coffee possesses a clean spectacular sensation and opportunities to showcase and sell their progress and development. showcase and sell their produce as a product from Rwanda. The brand as a product from Rwanda. The brand “RWANDAFRESH” of Rwandafresh itsproduce has been created to complement the numerous efforts of Rwanda to

taste and a mix ofhas blackberry flavors.

It reflects every facet of this “RWANDAFRESH” been created to complement the numerous efforts wonderful the nation's volcanic andand idyllic Rwanda tocountry improve because and streamline the country brandsoil image stimulate progress and development. climate result in one of the finest coffees in the world.

improve and streamline the country brand image and stimulate its

This is a unique trademark which stands for promoting progress and development solely Rwandan horticultural products. It gives producers and traders a spectacular sensation and opportunities to showcase and sell their produce as a product from Rwanda. The brand “RWANDAFRESH” has been created to complement the numerous efforts of Rwanda to improve and streamline the country brand image and stimulate its

2016

Agri-Business

Rwanda, Unilever partner to develop tea sites

By Jackson Bajeneza

A recent report by the National Agriculture Export Board (NAEB) indicates that Rwanda’s tea export receipts rose to $18.8 million (Rwf14.9 billion) during the first three months of 2016, up from $17.7 million during the same period last year

he sector is destined to even perform better in the years ahead following a recent agreement signed between the government of Rwanda and Unilever Tea Rwanda Limited to construct a tea processing factory and develop two large scale tea sites in Kibeho and Munini sectors in Nyaruguru District.

The signing agreement was held in Kigali on 10th of May this year and

the project is slated to kick off this September.

Under the agreement, Unilever will invest about $50 million to construct a tea processing factory to produce high quality black tea from green leaf, develop two new tea estates and support small scale tea growers in Kibeho and Munini.

Similar projects will be implemented in high altitude districts of Nyamagabe, Rutsiro and Karongi.

The next site will be Rugabano in Karongi district.

Private Sector Federation

33

Agri-Business

Camille Z.Chammas Unilever vice President Procurement supply-Chain and sustainability (L) and Geraldine Mukeshimana, Agriculture Minister sign the agreement.

A landmark project The project, which will cover 4000 hectares, will improve the livelihoods of many thousands of farmers and their families through creating 2000 jobs while 3000 famers will be planting tea in the area.

Two partner organizations, the UK Wood Foundation and the Dutch Sustainable Trade initiative IDH will support the smallholder tea development that will form a core part of the tea supply.

Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Food, Home and Personal Care products with sales in over 190 countries and is the world’s largest tea marketing company with leading brands such as Lipton Yellow Label, PG Tips, Brooke Bond Red Label and many others.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of Agriculture, Geraldine Mukeshimana, said that the project is part of the government’s strategy for

34

Private Sector Federation

NAEB targets to increase tea export earnings to

$94.9 m by 2018.

2016

tea expansion in the country with the target to have 18, 000 hectares of tea plantation by 2020. “The Government of Rwanda has put up a commendable effort to achieve rural economic transformation as envisioned its vision 2020.

Through this partnership with Unilever, the Government of Rwanda seeks to improve the livelihood of its citizens through the creation of jobs and generating wealth for small scale tea growers in Kibeho and Munini by providing them a reputable partner & ready market for their tea.” Minister Mukeshimana said during at the signing ceremony.

For his part, Camille Z Chammas, Unilever Vice President Supply Chain Procurement & Sustainability, said the partnership will allow Rwanda to further exploit its potential to produce some of the world’s best tea with direct links to global markets via Unilever’s supply chain and brands that will generate a secure long term income for rural communities.

Boosting tea exports

NAEB targets to increase tea export earnings to $94.9 million by 2018.

According to the recent NAEB report, Rwanda exported 6,811,095 million kilos of tea during the first quarter of the year, fetching about $18.8 million and this good performance was largely attributed to the establishment of Muganza Kivu Tea Factory in Nyaruguru District, Southern Province, and three other processing plants in Karongi, Mushubi, and Rutsiro that “were instrumental in encouraging farmers to increase both production and quality”.

Experts say the performance is a result of efforts by the agro-exports body and stakeholders, particularly investing in distribution of farm inputs, and emphasis on value addition. NAEB projects production to increase to 3,000 tonnes of dry tea per annum on average.

To achieve this, NAEB has drafted a new tea leaf handling model to boost quality along value chain and enhance the sector’s competitiveness.

Finance

2016

MFIs easing loan access to low income earners

By Ivan Ngoboka

In developing economies, upcoming small scale investors are often faced with financial hindrances. The government of Rwanda is addressing this by facilitating the establishment of Microfinance institutions (MFI’s) as an alternative source of capital. icrofinance (MF) is a type of banking service that is provided to unemployed or low-income individuals or groups who would otherwise have no other means of gaining financial services. Ultimately, the goal is to enable them become self-sufficient by providing a means of saving money, borrowing money and insurance.

MF is generally considered a powerful tool in reducing income inequality, allowing citizens from lower socio-economical classes to participate in the economy. Information from the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) shows that there are 493 licensed Micro Finance institutions (MFI’s) in the country.

36

Business Development Fund gives collateral cover of upto

75%

for economically disabled citizens who want to borrow for business

Private Sector Federation

Loans made easy According to Jules Ndahayo, the C.E.O of Umutanguha Finance Company (MFC), a local MFI, which has 8 branches around the country and gives loans ranging from Rwf10, 000 to Rwf35million, they try to make it simple for those without collateral, leasing items out like taxi-motos on condition that the client pays a certain small fee per month for an agreed period of time before they finally take complete ownership of the asset.

For those confirmed not to have any form of collateral, MFC just like all MFIs in the country seeks the support of the Business Development Fund (BDF) a

government initiative that provides collateral cover of up to 75% for economically disabled citizens who want to borrow for business.

“Women and youth get 75% cover, while men get 50%,” he says.

Besides government support, nonprofit organizations (NGOs) sometimes also chip in to help MFIs do their work. For instance, Access to Finance Rwanda, a nonprofit organization geared at (among other things) lifting rural people out of poverty, through providing grants and technical advice to help them function better, spent about USD 16 million on such aspects for the time running from 2010

2016

Finance

and 2015, and this grew to USD 38 million for the 2016-2020 period.

“When SACCOs and MFIs run out of deposits, we give them backup through grants,” remarks Jean Bosco Iyacu, the AFR Technical Manager, adding that the organisation also provides training to MFIs on how to deal with SMEs. “Many micro-businesses don’t have periodic financial reports, so financial institutions find it difficult to work with them; that’s why we train staff of MFIs on how to work with them,” he adds.

“We don’t give any chance to duping of clients, so MFI’s send us mandatory financial reports every month, coupled with regular inspections of such work stations by our teams.

There are fines for the institutions found not to be complying with the rules, and in some instances the MFI in question is forced to replace its leadership,” Kavugizo says.

Gov’t supervision

Government through the central bank also plays the monitoring role on MFIs to ensure they meet standards and don’t rip off clients.

According to Kevin Kavugizo, the Director of Microfinance Supervision Department at BNR, each MFI must present Rwf300million as capital before being allowed to start business.

Private Sector Federation

37

Empowering everyone at every stage of development About BRD

Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) is a public limited company with a share capital of RWF 7,808,931,000 that was incorporated on August 5, 1967. The Bank majorly provides short, medium and long term financing to priority sectors which significantly facilitates the emergence of a private sector that creates employment and contributes to poverty reduction in Rwanda.

Vision

A world-class finance institution focused on accelerating Rwanda’s economic transformation.

Mission

To be a trusted and strategic partner for Rwanda’s development by availing financing and advisory services to impactful entrepreneurs in key priority sectors

Strategic Themes • • • •

Focused Growth Strong Partnerships Maximize Development Impact Resource Mobilization BRD Head Office, Boulevard de la Revolution Phone: (+250) 575079 • Mob: Toll free: 3288 Fax: (+250) 573569 • Email: brd@brd.rw Web: www.brd.rw

Priority Sectors

The Bank focuses on supporting the priority sectors: • Exports Development • Affordable housing • Agriculture Financing • Education financing • Energy Development BRD provideds a wide range of products, programs and services: • Loans • Leasing • Equity • Refinancing • Guarantee Funds • Trade finance • Capacity building and Advisory • Student loans and bursaries program • Export Growth Facility program

Our Journey is traced 41 years ago when people of Nkamba, a village in the current Eastern province of Rwanda felt the need to have a savings and credit scheme to help them grow financially and achieve better livelihoods.

Subsequently, other community based savings and credit schemes were born in other areas of Rwanda becoming various autonomous “Banques populaires.”

I

n 1986, as these autonomous savings and credit schemes grew bigger and stronger, an umbrella bringing them together was put in place, with its headquarters in Kigali, under the name “Union des Banques Populaires du Rwanda (UBPR). These entities were tied together as cooperatives principally to serve their members.

The experience reached in providing financial services to the people, the growth that had been realized and the potential for growth that was inhibited by being a cooperative, called for upgrading.

Head office

In 2008, UBPR transformed to become a fully-fledged commercial bank, progressively we have touched the lives of Rwandans and have become part of their success stories, our deeds even went further to manifest by attracting global investors.

Today we pride ourselves in being part of Atlas Mara which is a global brand with firm existence and establishment in sub Saharan African region and it brings to us unmatched experience and access to enough capital to finance our customers’ business needs.

Building on our existing strong branch Network of 191 branches and 103

Banque Populaire du Rwanda Ltd

ATMs we are bringing to the Rwandan market exciting products with the latest technologies and aspire for a world class customer experience.

We are a proven financial institution woven into the fabric of the Rwandan people’s lives and with our insatiable appetite to do so much more, the journey to grow with us is unrivalled.

Our vision

Become the best bank in Rwanda and the only true universal bank which is trusted as a bank of choice for its Retail, SME, corporate and underbanked customers.

KN 67 Street, 2 | tel: +250 252 573 563 | +250 252 573 579 | PO Box 1348 Kigali, Rwanda | Email: info@bpr.rw | call Centre: 1500 Website: bpr.rw Directors : John Vitalo (Chairman); Sally Bott; Richard Muller; Ben Christiaanse; Linda Kalimba Mulenga ; David Musemakweli; Désiré Rumanyika; Emmanuel Habineza; Sanjeev Anand

UMWALIMU SACCO: Empowering teachers financially Created in 2006 for Rwandan teachers to uplift their social and economic status and to contribute to social-economic development, UMWALIMU Savings and Credit Cooperative (UMWALIMU SACCO) has for the past ten years dignified many lives by availing teachers affordable financing. he establishment of the SACCO was the initiative from H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda.

The savings and credit cooperative was established to contribute to teacher retention, stability, effective curriculum instruction, and to bring about multiple positive effects in the community through small business

40

Private Sector Federation

interactions, joint ventures and other services and skills that may be offered by motivated teachers. The 100% teacher owned UMWALIMU SACCO for many years now has had an enormous impact on teachers throughout the whole country. It has been able to bring together teachers to work towards improving their welfare by decentralizing its services to serve all its members in the 30 districts of Rwanda.

As a financial institution, the cooperative fully complies with the Central

Bank’s regulations and the Rwanda Cooperative Agency has expanded its services closer to the members by partnering with 416 Umurenge Saccos in regard to money transfer services using modern technologies to increase member’s access to financial services.

By the beginning of last year, the Cooperative had over 75,746 members and has disbursed a cumulative loan total of 83,757,205,962 Rwf, with the biggest portion being invested in construction and small businesses.

Finance Today, UMWALIMU SACCO has an asset base of 35,588,586,343 and will continue to mobilize funds from other financial institutions in order to finance teachers in getting mortgage loans reimbursements up to 15 years.

erative came up with a programme that provides teachers several goods on credit.

Teachers are then required to pay immediately they receive their monthly pay.

This, teachers say has addressed the issue of lack of day-to-day commodities in their homes. The cooperative started a market in which fellow teachers get the goods at lower prices.

“Lack of household income for members to meet their needs is something we have pragmatically addressed.

In the cooperative, we give teachers some of the domestic items, relieving them of the burden that could have affected their families as well as performance at their work place,” says Ndahayo.

He adds that the initiative has provided employment to a number of people, and boosted sale of produce including; rice, maize and beans.

Teachers find prosperity in Cooperatives

One of the government’s poverty eradication strategies is to encourage the population to form and work in cooperatives.

This is what Ndahayo Emmanuel, President of Ruhango Twigire Cooperative,had in mind when he organized a group of teachers to form a cooperative whose license they got from Rwanda Cooperative Agency.

“After travelling to Bangladesh, Singapore, Ireland and the Philippines, and getting exposed to how people in various professions survive through cooperatives, I decided that it would be a good idea for teachers back home.

So with a group of 30, we were ready to start one” says Ndahayo of the group that includes teachers, head teachers and education officers at sector level in Ruhango district.

Challenges

Joining UMWALIMU SACCO

Each member put up 100,000Rwf share capital, a total of 3 million Rwf, after which they approached UMWALIMU SACCO to finance them to engage in businesses.

Ndahayo Emmanuel adds that when they started in 2013, they also wanted to serve the needs of other teachers in the community

by creating a teacher’s market. In addition, they wanted to venture into supplying food to boarding schools throughout the region After accumulating

enough savings, the Cooperative secured a 20 million Rwf loan from UMWALIMU SACCO which it services monthly for a period of 3 years With the loan, the coop-

He however cited challenges that the cooperative faces in carrying out its duties.

“Our biggest challenge now the fact that we currently lack our own premises. We rent office space and storage facilities. Neither do we own transport facilities to carry food and merchandise” he added The cooperative has plans of engaging in various income generating activities that will include building a school, starting a transport company on upcountry routes as well as opening up a three-star hotel among others.

Private Sector Federation

41

Our Vision

To be a key contributor to Rwanda becoming a competitive financial center through mobilization of long term capital.

Mission

To nurture wealth by facilitating the development of an orderly, fair, transparent and efficient capital market.

RSSB Building, Tower 2 (Peage) | 5th Floor KN 3 RD African Union Boulevard P.O Box: 6136 Kigali, Rwanda +250 252 500 332/5 E-mail: info@cma.rw | website: www.cma.rw

CMARwanda

Capital Market Authority

Let’s talk business

Trade finance

Flexible savings products

Electronic tax payments

Advisory services & Financial management training

3227

@imbankrw

Asset finance

Mortgage finance

I&M VISA Credit, Prepaid & Debit

www.imbank.com/rwanda

SORAS TOWERS BUILDING Premium office & commercial space.

Modern design with adequate parking.

SORA

S

TOWERS

SORAS

TOWERS LTD

LETTING FROM NOW

All interested persons are invited to indicate the space needed in square meters specifying the type of business and send it to the following address: Tel: +250 788 30 56 62 Email: sorastowers@soras.co.rw

For Booking Form go on our Website:

www.sorasgroup.rw

Let’s bring your dreams to life We understand as much as you do that beginnings can be hard. Thats why our Guarantee Fund is a good start to your prosperous journey.

Other products and services Guarantee Fund Sacco ReďŹ nancing

Quasi Equity Leasing

Post Harvest Grant SME Toolkit

BDF, Your Business Development Partner Call our toll free line 4777 for more information Or visit our website at www.bdf.rw

Advisory Services

RRA leverages ICT to ease tax payment, improve compliance simplified tax system is the cornerstone for a country’s economic development as it not only creates a healthy environment for investments, but also makes it easy to collect revenues that finance social infrastructure development.

In a bid to facilitate the private

Official opening of Rusumo OSBP

46

Private Sector Federation

sector, the engine of Rwanda’s economic growth, to operate efficiently with minimum costs, Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has since its establishment in 1998 implemented fundamental tax administration reforms through friendly taxation laws and by leveraging Information Communication Technology (ICT) to ease tax payment and revenue collection.

These reforms have seen both domestic and customs tax payment made easier—a development that has

propelled Rwanda among the easiest countries on the continent for an investor to do business in, according to successive World Bank Doing Business reports. The outcome of this is reflected in the growing popularity of the country as a Foreign Director Investment (FDI) destination.

As more investors come, the broader the country’s tax base becomes— leading to growth in tax revenue collections.

E-Payments Platforms One of the major ICT innovations RRA has made is the introduction of Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs) in 2012 to facilitate easy payment of Value Added Tax (VAT) by the business community. Over 16,000 EBMs have already been distributed, leading to over 85% coverage. The EBMs have helped improve tax compliance while reducing the cost of collecting taxes.

Tax payment has further been made easier by the introduction of the E-filing and e-payment platform through which taxpayers file tax returns online from the comfort of their offices, homes or even while on business trips. Using the same technology, small taxpayers can file returns and pay taxes using mobile phone application called M-declaration by dialling *800# and following prompts.

RRA also adjusted its IT systems to introduce automated payment of local government taxes and fees. All that a taxpayer needs to do is to log in to www.rra.gov.rw, click on on the type of services they want.

The system handles registration of taxpayers and properties, declaration and payment, accounting and reconciliation, audit and enforcement and manages tax arrears and tax appeals.

It is also used to manage rental income, fixed asset tax, trading licenses and decentralized entity fees such as market fees, birth and marriage certificates.

This platform provides timely communication between the tax administration and taxpayers through short text messages, alerts and emails.

“The world we live is changing towards automated systems... we don’t want factors like time or distance to be a disincentive for anybody. The new system offers a

Private Sector Federation

Simplified customs procedures

Improving crossborder procedures through one stop customs inspections or One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) as they are known today is a phenomenon that has significantly improved trade in Rwanda convenient and simplified way of filing and paying taxes by reducing the time and administrative procedures in the whole process,” says RRA Commissioner General, Richard Tusabe.

Rwanda is an import-based economy and tax reforms would not be complete with improved customs procedures.

One of the major innovations in this area is the introduction of the Rwanda Electronic Single Window (ReSW), an interface for RRA and other agencies involved in clearing of goods such as Rwanda Development Board, Rwanda Standards Bureau, MAGERWA, the Ministry of Health and airline companies.

ReSW makes it possible for importers to clear goods electronically from one place by enabling parties involved in trade and transport to lodge standardized information and documents with a single entry point, hence reducing time and cost of clearing goods.

This was further boosted in 2013 when ReSW was interfaced with Kenya Revenue Authority’s SIMBA system, Kenya Port Authority and Uganda Revenue Authority’s Ascyuda World to allow clearance of goods at the port of Mombasa, ensure seamless and faster clearance at Mombasa and real time exchange of information.

RRA has also developed the Blue Channel facility for compliant taxpayers to transport goods to their premises without being subjected to physical and documentary verification during customs clearance.

The Blue Channel is a window for importers to clear goods faster and followed up with a customs post clearance audit. This reduces costs and time spent during loading and offloading merchandise for inspection, hence enabling goods to reach the market quickly.

Faster border crossing

Delays occasioned by cumbersome paperwork at the borders have been singled out as an imped-

Private Sector Federation

47

Rusumo Border

iment to movement of goods.

About 12 border posts are being reconstructed into one stop customs inspections, commonly known as One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) bringing together immigration and customs officials from neighbouring countries to share facilities with Rwandan counterparts. By combining two stops for national border control processing into one and consolidating border control functions in a shared space for exiting one country and entering another, OSBPs reduce travel time for passengers and freight vehicles. Five OSBPs have been completed on Rwanda’s borders; Nemba and Ruhwa (Burundi), Kagitumba (Uganda), Rusumo (Tanzania) and Petit Barrier on the border with

48

Private Sector Federation

DR Congo. The impact of this innovation is already outstanding with OSBP operations at Kagitumba according travellers 30% time savings.

OSBPs have reduced border crossing time for trucks/trailers from 2-3days to a few hours as trucks are only checked and cleared either at the point of entry or exit.

This has significantly reduced transit costs incurred in cross-border movement.

Tax incentives

RRA tax reforms have been complemented by several tax incentives by the government to ensuring a conducive business environment.

They include an allowance of 40% of the invested amount in new

or used assets may be depreciated.

This however excludes motor vehicles that carry less than 8 people.

Also, an investment allowance of 50% is granted if a registered business is located outside Kigali or falls within the priority sectors determined by the Investment Code of Rwanda.

A taxpayer who exports commodities or services worth $3 million to $5 million in a tax period, is entitled to a tax discount of 3%. Exports bring into the country more than $5 million in a tax period, enjoy 5% tax discount.

Goods imported from EAC member countries that fulfill the rules of origin criteria are not subjected to customs duties.

Private Sector Federation

GOLDEN CIRCLE BENEFITS Personalized Service Members have access to Top executives (Chairman, 1st & 2nd Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operations Officer & Chief Advocacy Officer) to ensure timely advocacy on business challenges.

Access to a dedicated Golden Circle Account Manager for priority & personalized service.

Priority on invitations to special events Golden Circle members have access to high level business and public events including; Invitation to Golden Circle Forums Invitation to topical business networking meetings Invitations to high level government and presidential meetings where PSF is involved

Marketing Opportunities Golden Circle members have priority access to our marketing opportunities Such as events/ road shows/ meetings/ workshops including: Free flighting of web banners on the PSF web site 10% discount on international Expo Stands 20% discount on The Enterprise Magazine rate card Free branding rights and display of brochures at PSF organized events Access to information on local and International business related matters

Golden Circle Gala Dinner This is a premier business event of the year. It receives regional & international publicity and feature a yearly Publication of who’s who in the Private Sector - “

The Profiler”. This publication is distributed in all Rwanda Embassies including in-bound & out-bound high level trade missions thus facilitating more business opportunities.

Note: The above benefits are available to ONLY FULLY PAID UP MEMBERS.

Private Sector Federation

49

Dignifying Life

Our Vision: To be the most sustainable Water and Sanitation Utility in Africa, exceeding stakeholders expectations.

Our Mission: Providing quality, reliable and affordable water and sewerage services through continuous innovations and detailed care to our customers’ needs.

Core Values: • Customer Oriented • Efficiency • Integrity • Innovation • Professionalism

www.wasac.rw

Toll Free: 3535

Finance

Real Estate

2016

Increased production driving national construction boom

By Solomon Asaba

When CIMERWA, Rwanda’s biggest cement manufacturer announced in August 2015 that it was increasing production almost 6 fold with the launch of a new plant valued at about $170 million, it was but testament to the incredible boom that the local construction industry is undergoing. Local cement production is now expected at 600,000 tonnes, up from 100,000 tonnes annually and will supply demand for both the local and export markets.

52

Private Sector Federation

ngineer Dismas Nkubana, the head of Rwanda Engineering Council explains that the increase in local production of cement is a huge contributing factor towards growth of Rwanda’s real estate sector. “In the past, people feared constructing because much of the cement was imported, and market prices of locally made cement were also high. But CIMERWA’s increased production is promoting lower cement prices,” says Nkubana.

Indeed, after the giant cement ptoducer increased its annual production, cement prices fell from Rwf

2016

Real Estate Steeling for growth

8,500 to Rwf 7,300 for bulk buyers while each tonne shed close to $7 for exporters to now $205 per tonne.

Nkubana also believes that increased production diversified variety in cement that is required for different structures.

“People tend to go for the cheaper products, when the price of local cement is lower, they will buy it. However now there are two grades of 32.5 and 42.5 which people can choose from for specific structures,” he adds.

Besides local cement production, many industries within the country are taking advantage of the demand in the construction goods. One of such industries is that of steel manufacturers.

Over the last five years, these exported $560,000 USD worth of sheets to D.R. Congo and $36,000 USD worth of sheets to Burundi..

“This is a huge improvement from past sales figures,” says Sandeep Phadnis, the head of business at Safintra Roofing & Steel Rwanda, adding that increased production of roofing materials is commensurate to the cross border demands.

“We send materials to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi and our aim now is to import only a few raw materials. Fortunately, people who make direct orders from the factory have increased chances of enjoying discounts and negotiating for particular products,” says Sandeep.

No wonder, steel rolling in itself is increasing business within the private sector and while manufacturers focus on diversifying products, dealers are taking advantage of the lucrative boom.

Manufacturers like Meeji industries assure that there is a conducive business environment that allows for promotion of such steel products. Marketing Manager, Patrick Shalita, explains that the industry still imports a few raw materials from other countries but visibly domestic production of steel products is increasing.

The impact on the local industry is tangible, Shalita says.

“We have been over two years now in the construction business,

but anyone can testify to the drastic reduction in the prices of iron bars and other steel products during that time.” For instance Fred Munezero, a hardware dealer from Remera explains that previously the high cost of iron bars prevented people from constructing freely.

“Especially for storied structures, the biggest fear is about the iron bars. Once people think they are going to spend a lot of money on buying those materials, it could be the first set back in setting up buildings,” says Munezero.

Growing skyline

One of the features of Rwanda’s rapid growth in construction is the budding of big-budget structures over the last few of years, including the Kigali Convention Centre, Marriott Hotel, Kigali Heights and many others.

With each skyscraper that embarks on an upward climb, more people are employed as builders, masons, porters, casual labourers, while more still benefit from the businesses established after raising the structures.

Buoyed by sustained expansion in private and public works, Rwanda’s construction sector currently contributes more than 7 per cent to the national GDP and is growing at a rate of 9.4 per cent, according to 2014 statistics from NISR. Moreover, statistics from the Rwanda Development Board indicate that in 2015 the country registered investments worth $3.1 billion, and $123 million of this was from the construction Sector, which is also the third largest employer in Rwanda. -

Besides local cement production, many industries within the country are taking advantage of the demand in the construction goods.

Private Sector Federation

53

TAKE CARE OF YOUR FAMILY by getting electricity from 3,900 Rwf only

Now that we have light, my children have more time to spend with their school books and we have more time to spend with each other. Electricity has made it possible for my family to enjoy life.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR

Vision City to transform Rwanda’s property industry or most Rwandans, the approach to acquiring a home is straightforward: just a house and a small compound, thank you very much.

Considerations like the neighborhood in which it is situated seem superfluous, if even thought of at all.

However, this is set to change, as the first development phase of Vision City, Kigali’s foremost premium neighborhood, approaches completion. Vision City is the flagship project of Ultimate Developers Ltd Located in the uptown neighborhood of Gaculiro this first-of-its-kind project has different typologies ranging from luxury villas to apartments and presents unequalled offerings in Rwanda’s property future. The first of an envisaged four phases will soon be complete and consists of 504 spectacular homes.

But Vision City will be about much more than just the house.

A self-sustaining city

Besides owning a contemporary property with chic, urban aesthetics and exquisite at-

tention to detail, residents of Vision City and the surrounding neighbourhood get to enjoy state of the art infrastructure and amenities, first-rate asphalt roads and pedestrian walkways, secure open parking, street lamps, a pre-installed fibre-optic network, and safe public spaces that are ideal for your children’s play and communal activities like gusabas, weddings, birthday parties etc.

“It is going to completely transform the way we think about housing in Rwanda, from merely selling a house to providing a fully self-sustaining neighborhood with easy access to all amenities,” says UDL Chief Executive Officer, Liliane Uwanziga Mupende.

The immediate follow-up phase is the Town Centre at the heart of the development where residents can access retail and commercial activities like shopping and banking; office space, entertainment centres, educational, recreation and sports facilities, and even a hotel.

Flexible payment terms

Interested buyers do not have to break the bank to acquire these prime properties, as UDL is looking at various payment

plans to ease the acquisition of the properties in Vision City.

“We accept installment payments with a commitment fee of 30% to start off,” the C.E.O. reveals.

“Secondly, we already have commitments from several banks, inclusive of which are BK, KCB, I&M and Equity banks to facilitate any of our buyers to access mortgages, if they fulfill their requirements. Finally, talks with other interested financial institutions, some international, are ongoing.”

A unique proposition

Mupende says owning a property in Vision City offers a unique proposition on many different levels.

“Rwanda’s robust and fast-growing economy provides great investment opportunities; and Vision City allows you to invest in a beautiful home in a beautiful neighborhood in Africa’s cleanest, friendliest and most beautiful city. What more would anyone want?”

Ministry of Trade and Industry

Special Economic Zones are critical to Rwanda’s strategy of promoting industry and export growth by offering quality infrastructure, streamlined business regulations and incentives to investors and businesses.

56

Private Sector Federation

Real Estate

RWANDA’s ONLY Premium Color

5

Roofing Sheets with Year FADE FREE WARRANTY * *Terms & Conditions Apply

IMYAKA

PREMIUM MATT FINISH TILE PROFILE

5 GARANTI* YA

Aluminium Zinc Coated steel inside - Long Lasting.

Elegant look with MATT finish - Highly Durable.

RSB Certified.

NIBY

IZA

100 %

Plot 2971, Nyamata Road, Kicukiro, Kigali.

Tel: +250 788389558 Email: sales@safintra.rw

Venturing into sectors where other private investors dare not – Horizon Group: Contributing to Rwanda’s leading the wayTransformation Socio-Economic Incubating Resources for Rwanda

HW

orizon Group Ltd was estabhen delelished in 2007 by the Rwangates at the dan government. The creation upcoming of the company wasth prompted 27 African by the need to contribute to accelerUnion Heads of State Summit ated socio-economic development of in Kigali make their way to Rwanda. The group would focus on the Kigali Convention Centre, those critical sectors of the Rwandan odds are that they will enjoy economy where local private players some of the infrastructure faare less willing or unable to venture. cilities completed by Horizon The initial focus was on the launch of Construction Ltd, a subsidithe Horizon Construction Company. ary of Horizon Group.

Currently, Horizon Group consists of Horizonsubsidiary Group Ltdcompawas three established established in 2007 by the nies: Horizon Construction Ltd, HoriRwandan government. The zon Sopyrwa Ltd, and Horizon Logiscreation of the company was tics Ltd. The company alsoneed involved prompted byisthe to in severalcontribute joint ventures, including to accelerated soAgropharm Africa for value addition cio-economic development to pyrethrum, S&H The Industries Ltd for of Rwanda. group would manufacturing roofing materials, focus onof those critical sectors of Rwandan economy where and Afriprecast for production of prelocal private players are less cast materials for construction. willingConstruction or unable to venture.

Horizon is the The initial focus wasThe oncomthe first subsidiary of the group. launch of the Horizon Construction Company.

Currently, Horizon Group consists of three established

hectares under cultivation. varietyThis of acreroads, including Pioneering green age is cultivated by seven farming co- and murasphalt, cobbled housing in Rwanda

operatives that produce combined ram;adifferent types of housIn a move that output will raiseof some ing construction, annual 600 metric consisting Kigali’s celebrated green of commercial, tons of dry flowers. Horizon Sopyrwainstitutional, profile even higher, Horizon public10healthcare contributes an estimated percent and resiGroup is pioneering green dential housing. world’snew supply of pyrethrum. The compaliving in ofanthe exciting ny is hasthe topsuccesquality heavy and Logistics undertaking Horizon called Cactus light construction equipment sor that company toitboth Horizon ClearGreen Park, will see for hire, and develops enerand350 General and the Suconstructing over envi-Services gy and water resources like ronmentally homes Project danfriendly Maintenance which have dams, hydropower strucand servebeen as a in pilot for im- since existence 2009.

Services tures and dykes. Finally, it enplementing green import/export cities. include trade, gages inclearing in-house production This dovetails services, perfectly equipmentof construction maintenance materials like Eugene Haguma, CEO, Horiwith Rwanda’s aspirations and leasing of construction equipaggregate, concrete and asEugene Haguma, CEO, Horizon Group zon Group to incorporate a company green phalt concrete. ment. The has specialised economy approach into thelogistics, and is a UN pany was born out of the engineering in peacekeeping Horizon Sopyrwa Ltd country’s economic transsubsidiary companies: regiment of the Ministry of Defence Registered Vendor. its 2008 when it took Horizon Ltd, onformation and has Construction focused primarily roads as envisaged Horizon in Group wasSince created with Economic Development and over the country’s then Horizon Sopyrwa Ltd, and and large infrastructure projects. the sole objective of of contributing Poverty Reduction strategy. ailing pyrethrum sector, Horizon Logistics Ltd. The Horizon Sopyrwa is a pyre- to accelerated national development Horizon Sopyrwa has incompany is also involved in Horizon thrum processing business. Prior to Construction following the 1994 Genocide troducedagainst a number of several joint ventures, inLtd being acquired by the Horizon Group the Tutsi, that had lefttransformational both the econ- changes cluding Agropy Ltd for value in 2008 to the companyS&H was privately and Rwanda’s fabricled shatHorizonomy Construction Ltd social that have to a complete addition pyrethrum, the leading localThe construcrun. Horizon has overis3,000 tered. company turnaround would achieve of the sector.

Industries Ltd Sopyrwa for manufaction company focusescreation on thisand through of businesses turing of roofing materials, Today, the pyrefive key areas. in sectors of national importance and Afriprecast for producthrum-processing compation of precast materials for Construction, where Rehabilitaprivate sector investments ny has the capacity to proconstruction. tion and Maintenance duce over 3,000 tons of dry were lacking.of a

The Horizon group of companies aims to build a strong future for Rwanda through investments that deliver value, social impact, and prosperity.

Horizon Group maintains a number of independent subsidiaries.

There are, however, structural ties between the operating subsidiaries and the holding. The core responsibility of the holding company is the formulation of a clear strategy in addition to serving as an incubator of businesses. The holding is also responCactus Green Park, one of our estates under development, is designed to be environmentally friendly.

It is a pilot project in sible for taking investment decisions, implementation of Green Cities as enshrined in Rwanda’s Economic Development & Poverty Reduction Strategy enhancing capacity, policy formulaCactus Green Park, one of our estates under development, is designed to be tion, and monitoring and control of environmentally friendly. It is a pilot project in implementation of Green Cities as operations. enshrined in Rwanda’s Economic Development & Poverty Reduction Strategy

Partnering For Growth

One of the many roads in Kigali City constructed by Horizon Construction

flowers a year and its factory contains a state-of-theart refinery, which produces the world’s best pyrethrum pale extract that is then sold to markets in Africa, USA, Europe and Asia.

Horizon Logistics Ltd

Unique among Horizon Group’s business interests is Horizon Logistics Limited (HLL), a carriage and forwarding agency that specializes in third party handling and transportation of goods.

Over the years, the company has built a reputation

One of the pyrethrum fields in Musanze District

for supplying goods in crisis areas, with a specialty in peacekeeping logistics, which has seen the company support the maintenance of equipment for over 3,500 troops in Darfur under the Horizon Group is wholly-owned United Nations African Misby the government of Rwanda but sion in Darfur and Kharregistered as a private company. The toum and,ismost recently, government not in charge ofthe the day-to-day company Central oversight Africanof the Republic. but acts through the board of also direcHorizon Logistics Ltd is tors. a UN-registered Vendor.

Horizon Group is aware that in It thealso emerging economy offersglobal services in –import where theand internet, the news meexport trade, dia, and the information revolution clearing services, shine light on business equippractices ment themaintenance, and around world – companies are more frequently on the basis leasing of judged construction of their environmental stewardship. equipment.

This transparency of business practices means that for many companies, corporate social responsibility including environmental conservation and protection is no longer a luxury but a requirement. Rwanda’s Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS), to which Horizon Group is a major contributor, acknowledges that sustainable poverty reduction and environmental conservation and protection are inextricably inter- linked.

The country’s reconstruction process in the 2000s prompted the establishment of Horizon Construction Company to take advantage of the

Horizon Logistics Ltd

Horizon Group is also involved in several joint ventures, including AgroPy Ltd for value addition to pyrethrum, S&H Industries Ltd for manufacturing of roofing materials, and Afriprecast for production of precast materials for construction.

For the past five years, Agropy Ltd, a joint venture between Horizon Group and British partners, has been developing environmentally friendly pesticides for Rwandans. Its diverse range of Certified-Organic, high quality and affordable insecticides developed from locally grown pyrethrum is not only good for the farmers’ health, but for their pockets as well since they raise the value of Rwanda’s tea, coffee, fruits and other exports and fetch a better price on the international market.

S&H Industries Ltd is the company responsible for producing “Hippo”, Rwanda’s most sought after brand of

premium stone-coated steel roofing tiles that are known for quality and durability. It is a joint venture between Horizon Group Ltd. and Sisay Investment Ltd, an Ethiopian company More recently, through partnership between Horizon Group Ltd and Millennium Group, Afri-precast Ltd introduced precast technology to the Rwandan Construction industry which will improve speed of construction, quality control and lighter floors. The company also plans to build capacity and local skills that would be harnessed for major national projects and will also improve environmental benefits arising from efficient utilization of construction materials.

As a rule, Horizon Group is committed to transparent business practices, sustainable poverty-reduction and environment-friendly operations.

www.horizongroup.rw

Eco-friendly pest control products produced by AgroPy Ltd

One of the pyrethrum fields in Musanze District opportunities offered by the emerg- ticides, most notably the synthetic ing market. In 2007, Horizon was pyrethroids, pyrethrins have a favourable profile.Ltd While all pesticides can awarded its first construction conS&H Industries tract for an asphalt concrete road in be toxic to aquatic and other organPrivate Sector Federation Kigali. The successful completion was isms, pyrethrins are ten to over hunfollowed by many other construction dred times less toxic than some of the projects both road and infrastructure synthetic pyrethroids.

59

AMEKI COLOR I

C O

L

R

A

M

K

O

E

USINE DE

PEINTURE ET

DE VERNIS

COLOUR LOCK TECHNOLOGY Resistance to water sensitivity, water spotting and color rub off.

You’ll keep that just-painted look even after reapiting washings.

Tel. : 25 2 500 257

RY’ITARA RYA

KOBIL PETROLEUM RWANDA Ltd PROFILE

BELECOM QUINCAILLERIE LTD

BELECOM QUINCAILLERIE LTD Is a general hardware supplier of construction, Electrical een established as aand General hardware supplier and construction services, Plumbing materials he best quality services in Rwanda with abil- and goods delivery as required by our clients ity to render quality services to all part of BELECOM LTD the country.

QUINCAILLERIE BELECOM LTD

our traditional business

ne of the leading Business hardware and Mr. Gapitene BONAVENTURE model CEO, Belecom s in Rwanda, for To provide the best render itsquality quality services and goods delivery as required by our clients from different fields to the country. ensure client satisfaction.

urpose: Products To be a Range We supply a variety of electrical, construchardware supply tion and plumbing materials including: ervices industry Electrical materials: Transformers, switchgears, Changeovers, Inverters, all types of elecanced services, tric cables etc tability.

Mr. Gapitene BONAVENTURE CEO, Belecom

Construction materials: All kinds of construction related Materials, from technical to safety gears like gloves, helmets, boots, quality tools services etc. ectations of our Plumbing materials: A wide range of high BELECOM quality plumbing-related materialsLTD is considered to be

one of the leading suppliers of general

hardware and construction materials in longProjects term Portfolio

d for in having The company hasRwanda, been involved supplythe of ability to render our customers its quality services to all parts of the related materials to various high-level projects like: Rwamagana Solar Energy Plant Project, vide exceptional country.

Rubagabaga Hydro Power Plant Project and

by pursuing the Prime Economic Zone (Free Zone) and organisations of different of different innovation and fields to ensure best quality services and perfect goods as required by our clients.

VALUED CLIENTS:

elieve in treating We value our relationships with our clients and are proud to partner with a number of organisations for the supply of electrical, plumbing material.

Among our Some ofand ourconstruction major areas of expertise are;many esteemed customers are: Rwanda Energy Group, espect and faith• WASAC, TIEC, Afritech Energy, EGC Ltd, NPD Ltd, Horizon Construction Ltd and Real Constructors Ltd etc ELECTRICAL MATERIALS: We ativity, invention supply all electric related materials ranging We integrate from Transformers,switchgears,change and business Address: BELECOM QUINCAILLERIE LTD Tel. (+250) 788304700 Email: bonagap@yahoo.fr, overs,inverters,all types of electric cables s of our business belecomsarl@gmail.com AVENUE DU TRAVAIL P.O BOX: 379 KIGALI-RWANDA etc CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS: We supply all kinds of construction related pansion in the business relationship with the following

C

&H Garments LTD is a multinational apparel manufacturer and exporter with its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya and branches in Ethiopia and Rwanda.

C&H Garment’s reputation is based on its guiding principles of “Quality” & “On time delivery” for all orders.

With dynamic local staffs and expatriates from Philippines, China, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and its commitment to meet international market standards, C&H Garments will emerge to be one of the leading apparel manufacturers in Rwanda and Ethiopia.

C&H in Rwanda C&H Garments Ltd started production in Rwanda in March 2015, with 200 workers. It currently employs 900 Rwandans

Vision To meet international market standard and be one of the leading garment manufacturers in Rwanda by 2015.

Mission To continuously manufacture export quality garments by empowering employees and workers with on the job training (internal & external) and strict implementation of a quality management system by creating a healthy and conducive working environment in which the employees and workers are benefited accordingly. And develop professionally an understanding of the customer needs by producing standard quality garments. and hopes to raise this number to 1500 by the end of 2016.

The stable political environment, government support and massive potential workforce make Rwanda an attractive investment destination.

In addition, the country enjoys duty free advantage compare to other regions (Generalized

System of Preferences, for Europe market, and African Growth & Opportunity Act, for the USA market), giving it a competitive price advantage.

Our Products We specialize in a wide range of garments like Uniforms, Polos, shirts and special hand-made designs.

Promoting “Made in Rwanda” While C&H Garments Ltd majorly produces for export (80%), we are committed to promoting “Made in Rwanda” brand and recently opened up C&H Made in Rwanda Ltd to cater specifically for the Rwandan market.

2016

Industry

PSF, RSB team up to promote product quality

By Solomon Asaba

As Rwanda seeks to increase local production and promote the “Made in Rwanda” brand both at home and internationally, the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), together with the Private Sector Federation (PSF), is intensifying efforts to ensure that all Rwandan-made products meet the required quality standards for both the local and export markets. Ideally, all standard products before hitting the market should be awarded ‘a quality mark’ from a regulatory standards authority, which is not only symbolic of satisfaction with the internal product constituents but is justification for quantitative and nutritional content.

A standards official tests an iron bar for quality.

Private Sector Federation

65

Industry

r. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, Director General of RSB says that the body has registered great strides over the years, with at least 270 products ranging from foodstuffs to non-edible materials now being certified, compared to the situation as recently as 2010 when the market was flooded with many non-certified goods.

Also, over 11 companies have certified systems, principally in the food sector, compared to only one company, which had a quality system mark two years ago.

More strategies are, however, being put in place to improve quality and by 2017, the standards body expects to accredit more laboratories.

“The standards are across the board and we do not only stop at developing these standards, we take the initiative of sensitizing manufacturers and other people about the role of these developments,” Bagabe says.

There is increasing collaboration between RSB and PSF, a body that brings together different private business people-including manufacturers- to ensure product standardization.

A collaboration opening up bigger markets

Gerald Mukubu, the Chief Advocacy Officer at PSF, explains that the collaboration with the standards body, by helping Rwandan-made goods attain international standards, is facilitating their ability to compete internationally.

“Our relationship with RSB is good and is the basis of propel-

66

Private Sector Federation

While exports decreased to $41.56m in November from $46.21m in October of 2015, Exports averaged $90.01m from 1998 until 2015, reaching an all time high of $590.80m December of 2012 and a record low of $37.77m in January of 2013

ling this trade. We have a common platform, and we recently had a high level meeting to table issues from the different sectors such as the manufacturing.

These included people from the food industry, art and craft. We shared information with the (RSB) director and most of them have already been resolved,” says Mukubu.

He adds that the two bodies also agreed to carry out awareness campaigns to ensure that all the available information is disseminated to the public.

“Information is there but we want it to reach the beneficiaries. Some manufacturers have been advised to use the same approach,” he adds.

2016

Eco-friendly packaging PSF is also working with other authorities to ensure that the packaging of the products does not contravene environmental regulations.

“We are working with REMA and the Ministry of Natural resources to ensure that the packaging remains high quality but also friendly to the environment. Our next high level meeting will be with the environmental issues platform” Since made in Rwanda products now make up a huge proportion of the export market, it is important that manufacturers put all the standard requirements in place to contribute to economic growth.

“ The pride of the land of a thousand hills �

The 1st Industry in independent Rwanda Manufacturers of:

Laundry & Toilet Soaps, Powder & Liquid Detergent, Personal Care Products (both Hair & Body Care Cosmetics), Scouring Powder, Packaged Drinking Water, Confectionery, Plastic Moulding & Novelty Items, Corrugated Cartons, Paper Packets, Casseroles & Tin Containers.

Trading - Importers & Distributors

Popular brands of Tyres (MRF, Dunlop, Ceat, Falken, Hercules, Triangle etc) & Batteries (Yuasa, Kobe - Sun, FB, Standard, Bosch etc), Automobiles, Automotive Spare- parts, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Cooking Range, Refrigerators,Plastics Novelty items and Imported FMCG Products (PZ Cissons, Bitez etc).

9

Garage & Machine Shop

Fully equipped executive garage in the centre of Kigali.

Industry

2016

Efficiency key to competitiveness in industries With tens of African leaders and thousands of delegates coming to Kigali this July for the AU Summit, and the 2016 Rwanda International Trade Fair following fast on its heels, Ngabire Emmanuel sat down with Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Francois Kanimba for a wide-ranging discussion on the economy, the future of the expo and economic liberation for Africa. Below are excerpts.

Rwanda has consistently ranked high in the World Bank’s Ease of doing business, placing among the top three performers on the continent each year without fail. What do such rankings mean for the common business person?

First of all, I think the common business person operating in Rwanda can testify to government efforts to ease bureaucratic procedures and facilitate business. These rankings mean you can transact business in Rwanda with as little hassle as possible.

But this report is also very important globally because it shapes the branding of Rwanda to the international business community.

This is one reason why we are seeing an increasing number of global investors coming to Rwanda, to explore business opportunities.

Rwanda continues to suffer a negative trade deficit- and it is widening. What plans does MINICOM have to help bridge this gap?

68

Private Sector Federation

Indeed Rwanda’s trade deficit is a major problem, and we are addressing it in a two-fold manner: First, we recently designed an export strategy to explore areas where Rwanda has the potential for diversification. It is now at implementation phase. We are also engaging our exporters- especially SMEs- on how they can take advantage of the market preference (agreements) we have with bigger markets like the EU, USA, and some Asian countries. Our aim is to support the growing number entrepreneurs (mostly young people) who are looking to trade internationally.

We have set up specific instruments like the Export Growth Fund to accompany SMEs in accessing capital,

sharing the cost of market entry, and even getting a guarantee cover for export contracts.

Secondly, there is the “Made in Rwanda” campaign to promote locally manufactured products. We

2016

Industry

drafted an ambitious Domestic Market Recapturing Strategy to see where we have potential to increase production and substitute on some imports. We are now focused on that, especially in sectors like food production, construction materials, the garments industry etc.

Value addition, a necessary condition to boost exports or for import substitution, often involves a cost factor.

Can we produce locally at a competitive rate?

Competitiveness is both a process and a culture. When you visit some of our industries, there is a lot of wastage. I think we need to educate and support local manufacturers to be more efficient.

We also recognize that some of the challenges they face are beyond their control, like the cost of electricity which is quite high compared with the neighbouring countries. Government is looking for ways to progressively cut down electricity tariffs for the industrial sector, so that- at least in the medium term- we can bring it to par with rates in regional countries like Uganda and Kenya.

Cost of labour is another problem. While wages in Rwanda are low, there is a significant skills gap. Government is now focusing on how to build skills for industrial development through focus on technical and professional development subsidising the cost of training for workers until they become productive.

These are just a few of the things we are doing to progressively help industries and SMEs to reduce production costs and become more competitive in the market.

If we removed such Non-Tariff Barriers intra-regional trade would increase dramatically, even before adding new investments

MINICOM is a major partner in the upcoming Rwanda International Trade Fair. What is your assessment of it? Would you say it has been a success?

The Rwanda International Trade Fair has been a great success, and the evidence for this is that overtime the attendance both of exhibitors and visitors has been increasing exponentially, and participants diversifying.

This shows that it is of high interest to both the local and global business communities.

Also in terms of outcome, it has been a good learning opportunity for local SMEs, since they can easily transfer skills and technology from more advanced practitioners. I think over time such interactions end up by significantly impacting the economy.

But there is a limit-even physically speaking, due to space and infrastructural factors- to how far the expo can go in its current format. As major partners, where do you envisage the Rwanda Expo will go in the coming years? What is the next level?

That’s a very good question; and I fully agree with you. We have been planning to expand the space through the construction of a modern international trade exhibition facility. The Private Sector Federation has been allocated around 18ha of government land in Gahanga sector for this, so our next step is to find a strategic partner to develop the infrastructure.

Thus the next 3-4 years, we shall have a big International exhibition centre, hosting not just the international trade fair once in July/August but possibly more each year.

Hence it will attract more business people from the region to come to Rwanda.

The AU is coming to Kigali. Now, in the struggle for Africa’s economic liberation, ministries like yours are at the frontline. What can be done to boost intra-African trade?

Africa has been largely successful in ending conflict and creating a peaceful continent conducive to business. However, we still have a very serious problem of mistrust.

Many countries continue to impose very heavy costs to allow people to access them-even business people. This means that on top of bottlenecks like the infrastructure gap, you add the cost of visas and so on. It is this attitude that has led, despite so many years after integration efforts, to intra-regional trade remaining at only 12%.

If we removed such Non-Tariff Barriers intra-regional trade would increase dramatically, even before adding new investments; all it requires is a change of mindset.

Private Sector Federation

69

ot 16 at

ne where

and distributes alcoholic beverages in Rwanda. SGL is registered as an agroprocessing industry.

ants to be

Speranza Group LTD (SGL)

ration, it chnology, ment to he company was established duct with in 2012 and currently has two bjectives. plants; one at Samuduha, Kabeza

T

SPERANZA GROUP LTD (SGL)

T UP LTD T (SGL)

SPERANZA GROUP (SGL) is one of the leading companies that manufactures and distributes alcoholic beverages in Rwanda. SGL is registered as an agroprocessing industry.

SPERANZA GROUP LTD (SGL)

SPERANZA GROUP LTD (SGL)

and theheother at Kimihurura.

The company was established company plothas 16 two at date in has 2012 acquired and currently

p to heEconomic was Kabeza established plants; one atcompany Samuduha, Kigali Special Zone where SUPER in 2012 and currently The has two SPERANZA GROUP (SGL) is one of the leading companies that manufactures and to therelocate other at it plans all Kimihurura. the plants to be and distributes alcoholic beverages in Rwanda. SGL is registered as an agroERANZA plants; one at Samuduha, Kabeza company has acquired plot 16 at SPERANZA GROUP (SGL) is one of the leading companies that manufactures under one roof. processing industry. and the other at Kimihurura.

The Kigali Special Economic Zone where ERANZA and distributes alcoholic beverages in Rwanda. SGL is registered as an agrocompany has acquired plot 16 at it plans to relocate all themanufactures plants to be ingBLUE companies that processing industry.

RY, Since thisKigali yearSpecial of incorporation, Economic Zone it where under one roof. it plans to relocate all the plants to be has brought together technology, M HILLS nda.

SGL is registered as an agrounder one roof. innovation commitment Since this and year of incorporation, to it

produce wife range a product with has a brought together technology, Since this year of incorporation, it innovation and commitment to quality in has orderbrought to meet its objectives. together technology,

TD also produce a wife range a product with innovation and commitment to qualityproduce in orderato meet its objectives. te nonwife range SPERANZA GROUP LTD upa product to date with quality in order to meet its objectives. has seven liquor brands, SUPER ERANZA SPERANZA GROUP LTD up to date GIN, SUPER GIN N01, SPERANZA ERANZA has seven liquorGROUP brands, SPERANZA LTDSUPER up to date

COFFEE RUM, GIN, SUPER GINliquor N01,SPERANZA SPERANZA has seven brands, SUPER SPERANZA GROUP LTD also produces WARAGI, GOLDEN SHERRY, BLUE COFFEE RUM,GIN N01, SPERANZA GIN, SUPER SPERANZA introduce and distribute non- alcoholic brands; HILLS VODKA, MILLENIUM WARAGI, GOLDEN SHERRY,HILLS BLUE COFFEE RUM, SPERANZA s (CDS) GOLDEN SHERRY, BLUE JUICE, SPERANZA HILLSWARAGI, VODKA, MILLENIUM HILLS SPERANZA MANGO WHISKY.

HILLS ORANGE VODKA, MILLENIUM WHISKY. JUICE. HILLS ction and WHISKY. GROUP LTD also ture. SPERANZA The SPERANZA GROUP LTD also produces SPERANZA and distribute non- also GROUP LTD produces and distribute nonortunities

alcoholic produces brands;and SPERANZA distribute alcoholic brands; SPERANZAnonalcoholic brands; SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA ORANGE JUICE. ORANGE JUICE. ORANGE JUICE. The companyplans plans toto introduce introduce company ductsTheis The company plans to introduce Carbonated Soft Soft Drinks Drinks (CDS) (CDS) Carbonated Bureau of Carbonated Soft Drinks (CDS) Mineral waterproduction production and and and and Mineral water and Mineral water production and to Kigali distribution in the near future. The distribution in the near The The distribution in thefuture. near future. company is exploring opportunities company is exploring opportunities company company is exploring opportunities available in the region. available in the region. stems available ISO in the region.

Certification of our Certification of

products is our products

is

Certification of our products is of underway with Rwanda Bureau of underway with Rwanda Bureau ed with a Standards.

After relocation to Kigali underway with Rwanda Bureau of Standards. After relocation to Kigali eam with SpecialSpecial Economic Zone,Zone, theto company the company Standards.

AfterEconomic relocation Kigali n. shallEconomic get its get products and systems ISO ISO shall itsZone, products and systems Special the company

sion

certified. certified.

shall get its products and systems ISO The company well managed a The company is wellismanaged with with a certified. qualified and professional team with qualified and professional team with

The clear company welland managed with a clear is commitment and vision. commitment vision. qualified and professional team with

Vision To become a leading, trusted and innovative manufacturer and distributor of beverages in the region which add value and continuous growth to all stakeholders.

Mission VisionVision Vision To continuously opportunities To become a leading, trusted and a explore leading, trusted and SPERANZA GROUP produces ToTo become SPERANZA GROUP LTDLTD alsoalso produces become a leading, trusted and GROUP LTD also brands; produces innovative manufacturer and innovative manufacturer and that create value and make a and distribute nonalcoholic andSPERANZA distribute nonalcoholic brands; innovative manufacturer and and distribute nonalcoholic brands; distributor of beverages in the region SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA distributor of beverages in thewith region SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA difference in our products, distributor of beverages in the region SPERANZA MANGO JUICE, SPERANZA ORANGE JUICE. whichwhich add value continuous ORANGE JUICE. add and valuecontinuous and continuous ORANGE JUICE. which add value and concern forto allthe environment and growth stakeholders. growth to all stakeholders. growth to all stakeholders. people so as to meet and exceed the Mission Mission needs of our esteemed Customers, Mission To Tocontinuously continuouslyexplore explore opportunities opportunities To continuously explore opportunities Employees, Suppliers and that make that create create value value and and make aa that in create value and difference our with make a difference in our products, products, with Shareholders. concern for and difference in our products, with concern for the the environment environment and people so and exceed exceed the people so as as to to meet meet the the concern for environment and needs ofof our esteemed Customers, needspeople ourso esteemed Customers, as to meet and exceed the Employees, Suppliers and Employees, Suppliers and needs of our esteemed Customers, Shareholders.

Shareholders.

Employees, Shareholders.

Suppliers

and

clear commitment and vision.

Tel: +250 788301623 Tel: +250 788301623 Tel: +250 788301623

become a leading, trusted and novative manufacturer and Email: P. O. Box 1210 www.facebook.com/speranza KK 18 AV, 238 speranza963@gmail.com www.facebook.com/speranza Kigali, Rwanda Email: P. O. Box 1210 18 AV, 238 Email: P. O. Box KK 1210 www.facebook.com/speranza speranza963@gmail.com Kigali, Rwanda stributor of beverages in the region speranza963@gmail.com Kigali, Rwanda

Tel: +250 788301623 www.speranza.com www.speranza.com

www.speranza.com

103

INSIST ON SUPER GIN, SPERANZA WARAGI AND SPERANZA COFFEE RUM. KARAHIYE

2016

ICT Sector

By Ivan Ngoboka hile today’s 17 -year-olds are accustomed to the social uses of computer and mobile phone technology, utilization of ICT is becoming increasingly essential for small business operations.

This is especially true in today’s highly evolved business environment where SMEs need to quickly collect and process data to provide the information essential to busi-

icts providing smart solutions to smes challenges ness decision making.

Information such as sales figures, financial accounts, customer details, purchase orders and payroll details are required to tell the business owner whether sales are

rising or falling, the level of cash flow, whether invoices are being sent out on time, whether accounts are being paid on time, and whether employees are paid the correct amounts.

Private Sector Federation

73

ICT Sector

Whereas in the past business data was processed manually, with handwritten records — a slow and often inaccurate process that involved reviewing copies of receipts, credit card vouchers, cheque butts, invoices, copies of pay slips and other documents, most work is done electronically today.

Over and beyond data processing, ICT has transformed the manner and extent to which businesses can communicate to realms hitherto undreamed of, rendering the medium indispensable for marketing, communication and other aspects of customer outreach.

Cyusa M. Leandre, the Chief Executive Officer of Cyuda Ltd and Kountable, both local Information Technology firms, agrees that ICT products help small businesses with marketing and sales, since for example through a website, available products/services are displayed, plus contacts like phone number, email, so and so forth.

“Some websites provide the option of interaction between the business person and the client, therefore it is easy to get feedback and updates about goods and services,’ he notes.

Cyuda Ltd which has developed and maintains over 30 websites for different companies since 2012, has built computer laboratories for secondary schools, and also developed specialized management systems for businesses like fuel stations, p h a r macies, schools, sup e r m a r ke t s and coffee shops.

“Local coffee shops like Magda (Kacyiru), schools like Hope Academy Gisozi, Maranyundo Girls school Bugesera district already use our management systems,” Cyusa says.

However, ICT experts say uptake of ICT’s by small businesses is still slow, and this is largely blamed on negative attitudes

Tailor-made services to SMEs

Increasingly, ICT companies are diversifying their offering to SMEs, providing services as wide-ranging as website development and support, to social media management, and tailored app development.

74

Private Sector Federation

“ With the pharmacy management system for example it’s easy to tell which drugs are close to expiring, those most on demand, health insurance firms which pay in time, and those that don’t, which all ease planning,” he adds.

Cyuda also supplies, installs and maintains closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to small business owners to help them monitor how employees treat clients.

Slow ICT uptake

However, ICT experts say uptake of ICT’s by small businesses is still slow, and this is largely blamed on negative attitudes.

“There is a misconception among business owners that ICTs are expensive, and that when they start using them government is likely to track how much money they make

2016

and then tax them a lot,” Alex Ntale, the Executive Director of the ICT Chamber at the Private Sector Federation (PSF) hints.

Besides the mindset issue, although there has been a push to digitise government services little effort in either policy or regulation has gone towards fast tracking SMEs onto adoption of ICTs, Ntale adds.

K-lab: Supporting ICT entrepreneurship K-lab (Knowledge Lab) is a technology hub where among other things applications aimed at easing the work of business people are developed.

The Kigali-based facility that grooms budding ICT entrepreneurs was founded in 2012, as a joint initiative of Rwanda Development Board, JICA, ICT chamber of PSF and GIZ to facilitate young entrepreneurs turn their ideas into business.

The facility which has about 1,000 members, close to 200 of them active, has enabled the birth of 45 functioning tech firms which today produce hundreds of applications every year.

The hurdles notwithstanding, Ntale believes with a little more support, Rwanda’s budding ICT sector can be a powerful support to SMEs. However, the process calls for patience.

“The process of developing an ICT product to take to market is not a straight, short one; it is long and full of bumps. But we try to help developers meet with potential customers,” Ntale concludes.

4G DD PSF EXPO MAG (197 x 260mm).pdf

1

6/24/16

3:01 PM

Dial *310# to get these awesome packs

Africa Smart Investments Distributions (ASI-D) Ltd

Africa Smart Investments-Distributions (ASI-D) Ltd is a smart devices and technologies distribution company that focuses on value Addition Services Founded in Rwanda with operation across African continent. ASI-D is owned 100% by the holding company called Afriica Smart Investments (ASI) Ltd.

What is ASI. AFRICA SMART INVESTMENTS (ASI) LTD is a private holding company founded by fifteen leading CEOs of Rwanda ICT companies. These shareholders represent leading, and profitable companies of ICT sector In Rwanda, including telecommunication, software and system development, hardware distribution and retail.

Mission, Objectives, Vision and Values of ASI-D Ltd Mission

“Shaping the Digital transformation of Africans”

Objectives

Creating innovative solution that can impact African Development and Businesses

Vision

“To become a World Centric Solution provider that Clients can rely on anytime To create cloud solutions that impact African Businesses

Values

Accuracy Simplicity, Innovation Development

Intervention areas

Smart Devices and technologies Distribution in Rwanda and across the African Continent Education sector development by introducing smart devices and smart applications smart classrooms

Key Partners

Government of Rwanda MINEDUC MINICOM MYICT RDB Positivo BGH Education sector Actors and implementers Smart Devices and Smart Application Producers

Activities

We are exclusive distributors and Wholesalers of Positivo BGH Products on behalf of Government of Rwanda agreements.

We do distribution of smart devices and smart technologies for export from Rwanda to African Continent Technologies development hub in different strategic sectors

Team

We employ a large number of staff across the continent including Rwanda branches ASI-D distributes its products through well selected and reputed Resellers and retailers to ensure products reach the end-user easily across the continent We have expertise in providing adequate solutions to your businesses and impact the continent in being smarter than it is today.

Contact Kigali City | Gasabo District | Ndera Sector | Masoro Cells | Kigali Prime Economic Zone, Plot D8 Africa Smart Investments- Distributions (ASI-D) Ltd | Tel +250783873884 Email : info@asid.rw

ISPA getting you Connected

Our Services Fast, Reliable and Affordable Internet Access 1. Wireless broadband Internet 2. 4G LTE 3. Fibre optics Domain Name Services Web Browsing VoIP Voice Systems (PABX) Video Conferencing Live Streaming; Local and International Conferences, Meetings, Weddings Fiber and Wireless Leased lines (VPN) IP TV Network Solutions

For more details on ISPA’s services, call +250 788 303427 / 0788 303181 Email: info@ispa.rw | Website: www.ispa.rw

AFRICAN. We can help grow world-class business out of Africa.

We believe in the ambition and potential of Rwandan business.

It’s why we’ve built Africa’s largest fibre infrastructure, capable of keeping any enterprise connected, protected and competitive at all times. Because we are not just a telecoms company.

We are your technology partner.

www.liquidtelecom.com/rwanda

Liquid Rwanda African General HP PSF Expo.indd 1

Building Africa’s digital future

01/06/2016 16:47

89.7 going the extra mile to keep you in touch

CONTACT FM

CONTACT TV

Transport

2016

Kigali Bus Services Pursuit of excellence in everything we do is the overriding principle that makes us the early adopters in passenger travel. We were first to give our customers the monthly fare package that enables good cash flow management. Leveraging on gains in ICT we brought Tap and Go card, and working with other stakeholders passengers enjoy WiFi on board.

Greening for Kigali ursuit of excellence in everything we do is the overriding principle that makes us the early adopters in passenger travel. We were first to give our customers the monthly fare package that enables good cash flow management. Leveraging on gains in ICT we were the first to adopt solutions that accord a passenger a hustle free travel through cashless transactions, and are now greening for Kigali.

Timeline of progress:

Introduction of Automatic Fare Collection System: As early as 2011, we were the first to introduce Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system for public transport in the region. The cards make it much easier for the passengers to man-

Charles Chairman KBS

age their transport costs, and also it removes cash from the system which is always a weakness in such sectors as public transport for the obvious reasons.

Present Status:

An advanced AFC system from AC Group Limit-

ed which incorporates not only Smart Card Ticketing but also a Fleet management system run from the GPS situated inside the Bus Validator. Buses are now also fitted with 4G Internet connectivity through an installed Router.

Greening for Kigali

Keeping to our tradition of being adopters, we recently added to our fleet vehicles which are rated as Euro III. This is a big investment for the company, however, we feel that the great City of Kigali the home of our business deserves and should get a

We are committed to improving passenger experience

82

Private Sector Federation

proper low pollution public transport system.

KBS is the first to be providing support of Cleaner Air and a smaller carbon footprint in Kigali which all goes to help reduce the Greenhouse gases emissions which cause Global warming.

Although there is a long way to go before we can start to reach more tolerable levels of pollution comparable to European countries, there is still a great deal that can be accomplished and we need to start now!

2016

Transport

Contact Address: Kigali Bus Services Ltd. | PO BOX 1266 Kigali Rwanda Email: info@kigalibusservices.com Website: www.kigalibusservices.com Private Sector Federation

83

2016

Your Strong Partner

innovations. We are passionate about etrocom Ltd was cre- the environment and strive to ensure a TRANSPORT Petrocom maintains a well-equipped ated in the year 1995 healthy, green and clean ecosystem for with a vision of be- us all. Petrocom, which represents Ry- garage with qualified technicians to coming the leading mco in Rwanda with its headquarters in serve our own fleet of trucks, which are the backbone of our quality and rapid company in interna- the Netherlands, has expanded beyond services to our esteemed customers. tional transportation transportation and petroleum products Petrocom has also signed an agreeand manufacturing of steel construction and diversified into three key core areas ment with MAN TRUCK, a leading truck of expertise: Exclusive Dealer of MAN Truck and Bus in Rwanda & Burundi materials within Eastern and Central Af& bus manufacturers based in Germany, Engineering the Future - since 1758 rica.

UFAMETAL through which Petrocom represents the We always put our clients first; and beThis is a steel factory located within the famous Automobile bus manufacturer in Focused on the key technologies in transport and energy, MAN and services range from trucks through city and intercity buses cause our reputation and credibility are premises of, and owned by, Petrocom.

It selling its buses, trucks and spare parts provides you with numerous products, our most valuable asset, we provide you produces different construction materials in Rwanda and Burundi. the best service and highest quality ma- color roofing sheets, plane sheets in HRC terials at an affordable cost. In addition, using about 600 tons of hot rolled coils, KAGUGU DAIRY FARM (KDF) Located in Kigali at Kagugu, this is a when you do business with Petrocom, 200 tons of prepainted HEAD OFFICE coils and 300 tons Petrocom Building, Avenue des Poids Lourd modern cattle farm with state-of-the-art you benefit from our wealth of experi- of galvanized steel sheets per month.

It P.O. Box 1576 Kigali - Rwanda facilities. Our vision is to be the best proence and technical expertise.

Phone: 788306238/+250 788 309650/+250 786543999 also250 produces metal pipes, tubes, gutters, Email: info@petrocom.rw, www.petrocom.rw At Petrocom we are dedicated to meet- and sheets ridges that are well suited for vider of diverse high quality dairy prodNYABUGOGO The activities at BRANCH Kagugu Dairy farm REMERA BRANCH RUBAVUucts.

BRANCH GISOZI theBRANCH consumer needs and are at par with ing you changing needs byBRANCH constantly KICUKIRO reChez Mutangana +250 783 018009 +250 788 558272 067896 +250protection 788 735542and conserdone with the industries+250 on 786are viewing the quality our services and other steel manufacturing +250of 783 262035 vation of the environment in mind. products and adopting latest market the continent.

PETROCOM

84

Private Sector Federation

Your Strong Partner Your Strong Partner Your Strong Partner

PETROCOM PETROCOM PETROCOM

Exclusive Dealer of MAN Truck and Bus in Rwanda & Burundi Engineering the Future - since 1758 Exclusive Dealer of MAN Truck and Bus in Rwanda & Burundi the Future - since ExclusiveEngineering Dealer of MAN Truck and Bus1758 in Rwanda & Burundi

Focused on the key technologies in transport and energy, MAN and services range from trucks through city and intercity buses Engineering the Future - since 1758 provides you with numerous products, Focused on the key technologies in transport and energy, MAN and services range from trucks through city and intercity buses provides you with numerous products, Focused on the key technologies in transport and energy, MAN and services range from trucks through city and intercity buses provides you with numerous products, -

HEAD OFFICE Petrocom Building, Avenue des Poids Lourd HEAD OFFICE P.O. Box 1576 Kigali - Rwanda Building, Avenue Poids Lourd 786543999 Phone:Petrocom 250 788306238/+250 788des 309650/+250 P.O. Box 1576HEAD Kigali OFFICE - Rwanda Email: info@petrocom.rw, www.petrocom.rw Petrocom Building, des Poids Lourd Phone: 250 788306238/+250 788Avenue 309650/+250 786543999 NYABUGOGO BRANCH KICUKIROEmail: BRANCH P.O. REMERA Box 1576www.petrocom.rw Kigali - Rwanda RUBAVU BRANCH info@petrocom.rw, BRANCH GISOZI BRANCH Chez Mutangana +250 783BRANCH 018009 250 788306238/+250 788 309650/+250 786543999 +250 788 558272 +250 786 067896 +250 788 735542 NYABUGOGO BRANCH KICUKIROPhone: REMERA BRANCHwww.petrocom.rw RUBAVU BRANCH GISOZI BRANCH +250 783 262035 Email: info@petrocom.rw, Chez Mutangana +250 783 018009 +250 788 558272 +250 786 067896 +250 788 735542 NYABUGOGO KICUKIRO BRANCH +250 783 262035BRANCH REMERA BRANCH RUBAVU BRANCH GISOZI BRANCH Chez Mutangana +250 783 018009 +250 788 558272 +250 786 067896 +250 788 735542 +250 783 262035

Sp

EXPO SECTION Expo fever grips Kigali Embrace advertising, PSF CEO advises International exhibitor testimonial

2016

27th July - 10th August, 2016

RITF Section

2016

Expo fever grips Kigali

As the long awaited Expo approaches, excitement is mounting over the fortnight-long trade fair. Solomon Asaba talked to some residents of Kigali and surrounding areas about their expectations of the annual event.

“I am more interested in the designs of the packages. I believe there is a strong correlation between good branding and product marketability. Even this time round I will be looking out for properly branded products.”

-Fabrice Nyirumuringa, Student.

88

Private Sector Federation

Jacky Umulisa

Fabrice Nyirumuringa

“Although I am busy in the mornings, I will visit the Expo in the evening. That is how I keep myself up to date. To me it is also an opportunity to make comparisons between imported and made in Rwanda products,”Jacky Umulisa, MTN airtime dealer.

2016

RITF Section

“We expect that through this coming expo local companies will copy ideas to propel them to the next level.

If you look at the trend, each expo is different from the previous ones since people learn and adjust their products to make them better.” -Elizabeth Gikundro, Supplier of African-print attire.

“If you want to meet creative minds; it is through such expos. Some of these young people have brilliant ideas but are yet to fully benefit from their projects; they need funders and for me the Expo is a place to address such problems.”-Ann Umutoni, businesswoman.

Elizabeth Gikundro

Ann Umutoni

“I urge everyone to come to the Expo and see for themselves the products on display. It is the best way to change the mindset of those who still think imported products are better than those manufactured here in Rwanda.”-Gonzalue Niyigaba, Dentist .

Gonzalue Niyigaba

“I believe many of the young people involved in product development today look out for such arrangements. It is a good initiative from the private sector because here manufacturers meet potential customers, clients and sometimes foreign exhibitors from all corners,” - Fred Ndahiro, Star Times employee, Kimihurura.

Fred Ndahiro Private Sector Federation

89

RITF Section

2016

Embrace advertising for business growth - PSF C.E.O (continued from Pg. 21).

The Rwanda International Trade Fair (Expo) is back. What opportunities does it present to the local business community and the country in general? Why should anyone participate?

First of all, it acts as a market for the local and international producers/ traders to sell their products. When we organize the Expo we are also looking at giving a chance to our local producers to network and learn from each other especially in technology transfer, activating business ideas and eventually lead to innovations in investment.

The Expo is an effective way of attracting foreign direct investment into the country. For instance some foreign companies which exhibited in the past later opened new businesses in Rwanda. We can cite a few, like JKK International from Dubai, which started a construction company, plus MUKWANO and MOVIT from Uganda which opened branches in Rwanda. ALINK Technologies from China set up a mobile telephones dealership; Yvonne Exclusive Designs set up a fashion shop, Egyptian House of Kitchenware set up in Kimironko for general trading and Roofings Rwanda Limited which opened a roofing factory and others.

The success of the Expo is partly due to great branding by PSF. What advice would you give business owners regarding the value of content branding as a way to promote their businesses?

90

Private Sector Federation

The business community will utilize the Expo opportunity to showcase and promote “Made in Rwanda” products as we embark on promoting local productivity to reduce the imports and to export more

The advice is very clear. We operate in a world of stiff competition. This is why for manufacturers and traders to compete on the global scene, they need to tap into all the available marketing channels to ensure exposure for their products. The biggest international brands have succeeded in sustaining their markets because of branding and advertising, and this is the same approach that we urge our local companies to consider if they are to compete successfully with others.

What are PSF’s expectations from the upcoming Expo?

We expect to get a successful Expo that will add value to our local producers by promoting their goods and services. The business community will utilize the Expo opportunity to showcase and promote “Made in Rwanda” products as we embark on promoting local productivity to reduce the imports and to export more.

How can participating companies in the Expo (sponsors, exhibitors) leverage this opportunity to spark sales and thereby maximize their returns on this particular investment?

I think it’s crucial for the exhibitors to learn from their competitors on how to improve the quality and quantity of their products.

They also need to emphasize customer care and innovations as all these attract more customers to purchase.

Join us in the Expo

as we warm-up to celebrate

AFRICAN BANKER AWARDS 2015

SCHILLO

Visit us at the Expo

RWANDA

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine Personal Protective Equipment

e inMade Rwanda in Made Rwanda | Enterprise in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine | Enterprise Magazine Magazine

Made Made Made in Rwanda inin Rwanda Rwanda | Enterprise | Enterprise | Enterprise Magazine Magazine Magazine

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine Sports Equipment

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine

Trophies

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine MadeMade in Rwanda in Rwanda | Enterprise | Enterprise Magazine Magazine Made Made in Rwanda in Rwanda | Enterprise | Enterprise Magazine Magazine

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine

Security

Health Wear

Hopitality

Uniforms & Accessories

52

THE LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

Made in Rwanda | Enterprise Magazine

52

THE LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

5252 52

THE LINK THEPUBLICATIONS LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED LIMITED | 2016 THE LINK| 2016 PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

P. O Box 3771, Kigali - Rwanda Tel: 0785 197 512 Email: pbhoti@gmail.com

5252 52 52 2 5252 52 THE LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016 LINKTHE PUBLICATIONS THE LINK| PUBLICATIONS THE LIMITED LINK PUBLICATIONS | 2016 LIMITED | 2016 LIMITED | 2016 THE LINKTHE PUBLICATIONS LIMITED 2016

52

52

THE LINK THETHE PUBLICATIONS LINKLINK PUBLICATIONS PUBLICATIONS LIMITED LIMITED LIMITED | 2016 | 2016 | 2016 THE LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

THE LINK PUBLICATIONS LIMITED | 2016

RITF Section

2016

Expo to find new home

By Jackson Bajeneza

In a bid to offer an even better experience to both exhibitors and visitors to Rwanda’s world-famous international Trade Fair, plans are underway to find a new home for the event that is known to many simply as “EXPO”’ A modern exhibition hall. The new Expo grounds will host world-class Expo facilities he Rwanda International Trade Fair is organised each year by the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in concert with the Ministry of Trade and Investment (MINICOM) and has proved increasingly popular each year, drawing in hundreds of exhibitors from all over the world and hundreds of thousands of visitors each time.

Now the ministry, together with PSF, is planning to crank up the Expo experience by setting up a new, ultramodern Expo venue with the latest infrastructure that will bring the RITF up to level with the top trade fairs around the world.

Dubbed the “Rwanda International Trade Fairs and Exhibitions Park

94

Private Sector Federation

The RITEP project will also host an administrative block for PSF and its chambers and associations, warehouses for rent, a recreation centre and a small zoo

(RITEP)” project, it is aimed atdeveloping a trade fairs and exhibitions facility and all related infrastructures which include a hotel, conference hall and shopping malls.

The facility will be constructed in Gahanga sector, in Kigali’s Kicukiro District.

Humble beginnings

From 2005 to 2008, the annual Rwanda International Trade Fair was held at Gikondo Expo Ground in hired tents, which proved costly.

The Private Sector Federation (PSF) decided to purchase its own tents in 2008 with the aim of organizing the annual Rwanda International Trade Fair at a more affordable cost and to promote different sector-based exhibitions.

2016

RITF Section during the 15 days of Expo.

Today, the RITF is immensely popular and registers about 450 exhibitors, two thirds being Rwandan, and the rest from outside.

Meanwhile, numbers of visitors to the event stand at over 300,000

tourist activities

Taking RITF to the next level

Major components

These achievements notwithstanding, PSF was eager to raise the trade fair to a level where it could attract major exhibitions of the sort organized in South Africa, Egypt or in other places like the Canton Fair (in China), an undertaking that requires that the Expo grounds meet international standards.

According to Ephrem Karangwa, the Head of Trade Fairs and Investments at PSF, it was in this regard that the project of Rwanda International Trade Fairs and Exhibitions Park (RITEP) was initiated. “Gikondo Expo grounds are no longer capable of accommodating the Rwanda annual International Trade Fairs due to increased numbers of both local and foreign exhibitors. This is why PSF, in partnership with the government, came up with RITEP project which will facilitate us to host international trade fairs in a more conducive and standardized manner,� Karangwa said.

RITEP is aimed at improving existing trade fairs and exhibition facilities by constructing permanent halls for exhibition with international standards and to avail more space not only for large trade fairs, but also smaller events such as conferences, cultural events, and

The project, estimated to cost USD45million, will have 6 exhibition halls with an area of around 20,000 square meters indoor exhibition space and 16,000 square meters outdoor exhibition space and a conference hall with an area of 2,000 square meters.

The project will also include, within the complex, a 200-room, 4-star hotel which will support the running and facilitation of exhibition facilities by providing allround services to exhibitors such as accommodation and catering services.

The RITEP project will also host an administrative block for PSF and its chambers and associations, warehouses for rent, a recreation centre and a small zoo.

Status

PSF has acquired around 18ha of prime land along the main road to the planned new airport to be constructed in Bugesera, and has approached potential investors willing to develop the project.

The federation has also developed terms of reference for a detailed feasibility study and commissioned the conceptual initial designs for the planned facility.

Private Sector Federation

95

RITF Section

2016

6 1 0 2 O P X E T A Y T R PA

By Manu Gome

I

t’s that time of the year when we whip out those dancing shoes, sharpen our brochette-munching teeth and prepare to party non-stop for 14 nights in a row at the ever-popular “Expo Rwanda”.

From the 27th July to 10th August, thousands of shoppers and revelers will storm Gikondo Expo grounds to check out what’s on display and buy some goodies by day; and to have a blast at sundown.

A friend who’s new to Kigali recently asked me: How do you have fun at an expo?

Expos are serious right?

“Are you crazy?!” my eyes shouted back at her.

But I didn’t shout.

Instead I smiled at the poor ignorant thing and cooed in reply: Honey, where else do you get two weeks of assured, non-stop crazy nights in Kigali?

When the Expo starts, everything else can wait. It’s Expo time.

All-day fun

It starts with kiddies time during day, with lots of games and fun activities like face painting, bouncing castles, merry-go-rounds and so on.

As the day wears on and dark starts to fall, the kids head home; the party ani-

96

mals start to troop in.

At the stalls brisk business is taking place as buyers and sellers try to clinch those last deals for the day.

Private Sector Federation

Everywhere a certain fever takes control. The air itself pulsates with excitement. The sizzle and spice of roasting brochettes calls to you like a siren. Your mouth waters. Pavlov should see you now.

The music starts to play.

Drinks flow freely at different watering holes. Pop into any and treat yourself to a good time.

For a more memorable experience, be sure to check out the Heineken/Bralirwa tent all day long for a cold drink, plus first-rate spinners at the discs, beers going for promotion prices and surprise guest performers in the evening. It is the perfect place for you and your friends to mix and mingle as you dance and shout the day’s stress off.

Ladies and gentleman, let’s get this party starteeeeeed!!!!

2016

Passion for Quality

RITF Section

Enjoyment for Life

Respect for People, Society and Environment

EXPO GROUNDS MAP

98

Private Sector Federation

2016

RITF Section

Rwanda EXHIBITORS AGRIBUSINESS

ICT

DOLLY FRESH 0788466126 mukhtarkawa@yahoo.co.in

AFRICA SMART INVESTMENT DISTRIBUTION LTD 0783687109 management@asid.rw

CLOTHES & SHOES RITU CHAUHAN 0788307476

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

MANUFACTURERS

SAFARI CENTER LTD 0788301777 MOBILE PHONES

CROWN PAINTS 0787690437 audace.ikuzo@coversys. com

KZG PHONES 0788648677 abusinge@yahoo.com

ELECTRONICS

PAINT HOUSE 0787612186 jasbir.jai@gmail.com

GLAMS INTERNATIONAL GENERAL TRADING CO.LTD 0786677149 rwanda-ezone@taajinternational.com FINANCIAL SERVICES COPEDU LTD 0788463727 HOUSES

ULTIMATE DEVELOPERS LTD 0788581940 iwantege@ultimatedevelopers.com

PAINTS

PHILLIPS PRODUCTS FUTURE HORIZONTAL 0781522035 africa1@futurez.com STEEL PRODUCTS SIMACO 0788301285

2016

Private Sector Federation

99

RITF Section

2016

INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITORS ART&CRAFTS ANNARITA 0721783312 hellennjue@gmail.com KENYA

BEE-ZEE ART COLLECTIONS +256772451545 patrickmwiti10@yahoo.com UGANDA CHARLES KIBOKI KENYA

EBNEZER STORE +256772621188 betty-ssebaduka@yahoo.co.uk UGANDA

HAPPY IMPORT & EXPORT ( SAID) +2010054387277 lovesick-ibrahim@yahoo.com EGYPT

MERCY HARUN ART&CRAFTS +254720272207 KENYA PHILOMENA & COMPANY +254710342418 philowama@gmail.com KENYA ROSE AUMA KENYA

SUMBI CURIOS +254722461042 nthmbithe63@yahoo.com KENYA

CLOTHES & BAGS & SHOES AHMAD AND AHMAD IMPEX +9195599133 INDIA BEE-ZEE ART COLLECTIONS +256772451545 patrickmwiti10@yahoo.com UGANDA C.K FASHIONS +254722335024 KENYA

EGYPT EXPO & CONVENTION AUTHORITY +201222580428 m.abdelwahed@cairoexpocity.com EGYPT EGYPTIAN CITADEL FACTORY +201004480597 eg_citadelfactory@yahoo.com EGYPT I.K DORKENOO CREATIONS +233244539201 innocentlundi@yahoo.com GHANA KISII +254721500923 jamesmakori@yahoo.com KENYA

PHILMAN SUPPLIES LIMITTED +254722877457 KENYA RATU AFRICA +233244382526 southscopeven1@yahoo.com GHANA RESTORATION +233244382526 southscopeven1@yahoo.com GHANA SAMBA SECK BINETA SENEGAL STELLA VENTURES +254122381128 KENYA VELONIC KENYA

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS ROOFINGS UGANDA LTD +256772723090 UGANDA

COOKING POTS ASSOCIATED FIRE SERVICES LTD +260211222889 Aafs.zambia@gmail.com ZAMBIA

100 Private Sector Federation

GENERAL TRADING AFROPAK +923002127946 info@afro-pak.com PAKISTAN ALKA DENO 0784999605 KENYA

HYDER TRADERS +923214152030 hyder_ali_ali77@yahoo.com PAKISTAN TAN TRADE +255 (0) 22 2850238 koberou@gmail.com TANZANIA

INSECTICIDE PRODUCTS Yanco Ltd + 44 (0)151 494 4488 ian.rogan@yanco.co.uk UNITED KINGDOM

JEWELRY PARS JEWELRY 0789436293/+289155171639 info@paris-jewelry IRAN KITCHEN APPLIANCES RONNIE SUPERMARKET 0789920171 nmrwa@yahoo.com INDIA LEATHER PRODUCTS

LEATHER PALACE +201147239333 alaa4antic@hotmail.com EGYPT

MANUFACTURERS CLASSIC MOULDINGS LTD KENYA DELFORK +233242866975 delfork@yahoo.com GHANA

ELANO TURKEY +902122731818 nicole@elanexpo.net TURKEY

FUBISUN MALAYSIA +971502368057 mrlookmoney@hotmail.com MALAYSIA GIFTED HANDS GHANA +233244681366 jbtettevi@yahoo.com GHANA HAPPY BAZZAR +201006325606 aatwa58@yahoo.com EGYPT

MARKWILLS GERMENTS +233267763475 mackwills2000@yahoo.com GHANA

MOHAMED KARIM MAMDOUH +201147584915 EGYPT

RENNAISANCE LOGISTICS INTERNATIONAL +2348137374780 apolloigwe@yahoo.com NIGERIA YUETMENG TRADING PTE LTD +6564439506 yuetmengsg@yahoo.com.sg SINGAPORE PROCESSED FOODS

EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL +254722505875 chiefexe@epc.or.ke KENYA

2016

2016

International Exhibitor Testimonial

I made useful contacts at Rwanda Trade Fair - Pakistani exhibitor aisal Bantva, a Marketing Executive with Pakistani company Afro-Pak Group, has been participating as an exhibitor at the Rwanda International Trade Fair (Expo) for the past six years.

Since its establishment in 1990, Afro-Pak is a trade promotion company that has established itself as a leading, reliable manufacturer and exporter of textiles and textile articles, with major and regular exports to the U.S.A., Canada,

Malta, Europe, Middle East & African regions.

“I first heard of the Rwanda International Trade Fair at the Saba Saba International Trade fair in Tanzania,” he says, “and I have been coming regular-

ly ever since.”

The marketing executive says their experience at the Expo has been good so far, and the investment generally worthwhile.

“We have made some

useful contacts over time and started import/exports with Rwanda. In fact we even organized our own expo once at the stadium,” he reveals.

“I would highly recommend non-Rwandan companies to participate in this expo in order to explore opportunities in this emerging market.”

However, he feels that the RITF can still improve in some areas.

“They should construct a proper Expo Center with wider space. This would greatly improve the experience,” he remarks, adding, “But I think this is already in process.”

Private Sector Federation

101

You can communicate to RSSB through : Email: info@rssb.rw Website: www.rssb.rw Phone/Toll free line : 4044

RSSB: PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE FOR ALL RSSB Schemes The branches currently managed by RSSB include:

1. Community Based Health Insurance ( Mutuelle de Santé/ CBHI)

From the 1st July, 2015 the management of Community Based Health Insurance (CBHI) scheme has been added to RSSB’s mandate. The move is aimed at improving the fund’s financial accountability and ensures quality health care for subscribers.

The contribution in Mutuelle de santé is paid according to Ubudehe categories which are based on household income.

The current classification comprises of 3 categories running from the poorest categories to the richest categories.

• The first category of the poorest pay an individual annual contribution of 2000 Rwf. The premiums for the poor are paid for by the Government of Rwanda • Individuals in the second category pay 3,000 Rwf per year.

• Members in the third category pay an individual annual contribution of 7,000 Rwf Contributions are paid at Sacco (RSSB account), Equity bank agents in all districts and Bank Populaire The community-based health insurancescheme year commence on 1st July and end on 30th June of the following year.A member who joins for the first time the community-based health start to benefit from medical care services thirty (30) days after the payment of his/her subscription fees.

2. Medical Insurance Scheme

Under this scheme, a member benefits from direct medical products covered by the insurance. This scheme covers all employees of the state, public institutions,

government projects, pensioners who previously contributed towards the medical scheme before retirement and any other private company whose application into the scheme has been granted.

Beneficiary’s Share for Accessing Health care (Patient’s Contribution):

The patient’s contribution amounts to 15% of the bill for medical treatment and/ or prescribed drugs while RSSB covers 85% of the bill.

NB: RSSB also covers medical insurance for pensioners with 7.5% contribution from their monthly pension. This concerns only pensioners who were members of former-RAMA before retiring

3. Maternity Leave Scheme

Maternity Leave Benefits Scheme is a new scheme managed by RSSB. The members of this scheme are the same as the members of the pension and OH schemes.

Its contributions will be made concurrently with those of the pension and Occupational Hazard scheme. It will benefit from any automation of the general contribution process. The contribution towards the branch of Maternity leave Scheme is shared between the employee and his or her employer at the rate of 0.3 % of the worker’s remunerations from each.

On the benefits part, RSSB will endeavor to provide online services especially in ensuring that the employers can apply for reimbursement online

4. Pension Scheme

Who are subjected to Rwandan social security protection?

and his or her employer at the rate of 3% of the worker’s remunerations each of them. The contribution to the branch of Occupational Hazards is exclusively made by the employer at the rate of 2% of the worker’s remunerations. The total contribution towards the scheme is 8% for each employee. The declaration and contribution of pension is done by the employer on a monthly basis not later than the 15th day of the month following the month to which the contributions relate

b) Voluntary Insurance in Pension Mandatory Scheme Any person who contributed under mandatory pension scheme and is no longer subjected to social security by the law, on his/her own initiative and upon written request, can voluntarily apply to remain in the scheme. The right to membership in a mandatory pension scheme shall be available to self-employed people who have never been members of the mandatory pension and are not aged over fifty (50) years. Also the right to apply for voluntary insurance is accorded to persons in the Diapora and registration is done electronically (online) at RSSB Website www.rssb.rw. In voluntary insurance, the salary used as the basis for calculating the contribution shall not be less than the base salary and may not exceed one hundred and thirty per cent (130%) of final salary used as the basis for calculating contributions. This salary cannot increase by more than thirty per cent (30%) every three (3) years.

5. Occupational risks : •

a) Pension Mandatory Scheme •

All salaried workers regardless of their nationalities • Active political representatives The contribution towards the branch of pension is shared between the employee

•

This is a scheme that allocates benefits to a worker or his/her beneficiaries when he has suffered, fallen sick or died due to a work-related accident or disease/infection.

This can happen while at work, going to work, coming from work or as a result of work.

B P, 521, Kigali Rwanda. +250 78830 2990 | +250 78830 9383 sales@tolirwa.com | tolirwa@tolirwa.com www.tolirwa.com Established in 1979, Tolirwa Ltd is the leading manufacturer of coloured, and galvanised iron sheets, nails, square, rectangular tubes and round pipes in Rwanda.

The factory located in Gikondo Industrial park, Kigali, with branches in Nyabugogo and Gisozi suburbs, also manufactures chain links, c- channel, door frames, barbed wire, and Transparent sheets. The company is opening a branch in Gikondo very soon..

Exceptional functional and technical expertise coupled with extensive quality makes Tolirwa the major supplier for roofing sheets not only locally but also other numerous places in the East African region.

Chain links Curved Sheets

Barbed Wire

Roofing Sheets

Tile ridge

Nails

Square & RectangleTubes

Steel Bars

International Exhibitor Testimonial

104 Private Sector Federation

2016

MORE THAN JUST HOUSES

SPECTACULAR PROPERTIES

A GREAT NEIGHBOURHOOD

HOME

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Ultimate Developers Ltd RSSB Building Tower II KN3 Rd. Kigali, Rwanda P. O. Box 5516 Kigali – Rwanda Fax: +250 782 016 168 E-mail: info@ultimatedevelopers.com | Website: ultimatedevelopers.com

2016

AFRICAN HOPE Ltd East Africa

With us make your place the best!

CONTACT

www.africanhope.net

Trust Industries Ltd.

ENERGY RESOURCES PETROLEUM H

GREAT SEASON HOTEL

BANK

Holdings

AFRICAN BANKER AWARDS 2015

A PARTNER OF

24 AMEKI COLOR K

I

C O

L

R

A

M

E

O

SORAS

USINE DE

PEINTURE ET

DE VERNIS

© Copyright 2015| Energy Resources Petroleum Limited | Confiden>al. Not for further reproduc>on or distribu>on.

Fuel for journey