Rwanda offers incentives to attract investment in commercial horticulture
The government of Rwanda and key development partners including the World Bank, have launched a number of initiatives to attract commercial horticulture operations. Two dedicated sites close to Kigali have been earmarked for commercial operations, and investment in integrated production and infrastructure zones countrywide is going on. This is aimed at increasing local outgrower output and create linkages with commercial processing units.
Rwanda is well-positioned to develop a vibrant horticulture industry that would cater for the growing demand for fruit, flowers and vegetables. Regulations and procedures for importing key inputs such as seeds, fertilisers and equipment rank among the most efficient in the world. The government has a strong institutional base to support the sector, including outgrower education and skills development, quality and certification programs.
Market conditions: While global horticulture imports have shown a marked dip, exports from high-altitude equatorial regions such as East Africa have continued to grow, buoyed by the continuing shift towards exotic, off-season and processed products. In Rwanda, growth in tourism and middle-class incomes is driving demand for high-quality produce.
Climate: Rwanda’s climate and rich volcanic soils offer ideal conditions for growing a wide range of fruits and vegetables.
Infrastructure: Previously infrastructure constraints limited growth but these barriers have now been removed. Five airlines are offering regular cargo service from the Kigali City to major global and regional hubs. Coordinated rural roads, electrification and cold-chain projects link production areas to Kigali and beyond. Regional road and rail projects are under construction and will soon link Rwanda to major centres in the East Africa.
Doing business in Rwanda
Rwanda offers an extremely attractive business environment for investors and ranks high in the region on all major global indices of competitiveness and governance.
For further information on investment opportunities in Rwanda contact the Rwanda Development Board.
This article was originally posted on Sustainable Development Africa Platform
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