Italy scales-up investment pipeline to Rwanda

Italy is poised to scale up its investment pipeline to Rwanda, viewing the country as a strategic hub for expanding trade ties in Africa. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Ambassador Massimiliano Mazzanti highlighted the significant progress made in bilateral relations between Italy and Rwanda. Mazzanti emphasized Rwanda's unique position as a small country with a population of 12 million that excels in projecting its image and showcasing its assets, particularly in the business environment. The country's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for investors has attracted a steady inflow of opportunities, with a focus on laws protecting investments and providing reassurance to potential partners. Rwanda has emerged as a model of trade and partnership in Eastern Africa, serving as a point of reference for other countries in the region. The Italian government has been actively engaged in various initiatives to support Rwanda's growth and development across different sectors, including security, conservation, agriculture, and tourism. Notably, Italy has partnered with Rwanda in training programs with the Carabinieri, the Italian military police, covering areas like conservation, anti-poaching, wildlife protection, and security. These efforts are geared towards enhancing Rwanda's capabilities in combating terrorism, with a special focus on regions like the Central African Republic and Mozambique. The partnership with ENI, a leading Italian multinational oil and gas company, underscores the shared commitment to fostering economic development in Rwanda. As ENI inaugurates its headquarters in Kigali, both countries are set to collaborate on various strategic initiatives that span critical sectors. Agriculture remains a key focus area for Rwanda's economic growth, given that 70% of the economy in the Great Lakes region is driven by agriculture, employing a significant portion of the active labor force. In collaboration with ENI, Italy is exploring innovative solutions like deploying drones for monitoring agricultural activities and promoting the use of quality seeds to enhance productivity and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation aligns with Rwanda's proactive stance on protecting its natural resources, such as the iconic gorilla experience that has become a major tourist attraction. Italy's increased engagement in Rwanda's economic landscape underscores the shared commitment to advancing mutual prosperity and strengthening bilateral ties. With a focus on sectors like agriculture, tourism, conservation, and education, Italy's investment in Rwanda is expected to yield long-term benefits for both countries. As Italy expands its programs and partnerships in Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, the strategic collaboration is poised to drive economic growth, support humanitarian initiatives, and foster sustainable development across the region. Through initiatives like education scholarships, skills training, and infrastructure projects, Italy is reinforcing its commitment to building a resilient and interconnected network of opportunities in East Africa.