Rwanda PM urges small businesses to target East African market
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva sees a gap in regional shoe production as an opportunity for local firms to expand.
Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva visited the 26th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair in Kigali, where he encouraged small businesses to aim for larger production capacities. East Africa requires nearly 290 million pairs of shoes annually, but regional manufacturers currently produce only around 17 million pairs, presenting a significant growth opportunity.
Nsengiyumva addressed exhibitors at the fair, stating that government institutions and financial partners are ready to support small enterprises in expanding their capacity to serve the wider regional market. He cited a Rwandan shoe manufacturer with a capacity of 6,000 pairs per year as an example of a business that could grow with the right assistance.
The fair, known as the Jua Kali / Nguvu Kazi Exhibition, runs until November 8 and features 1,500 exhibitors from across East Africa. Its focus on leather and horticulture sectors aims to create jobs, strengthen regional production, and reduce reliance on imported finished goods.
Why it mattersSmall businesses in Rwanda can grow by accessing the larger East African market, particularly in sectors like leather and horticulture.