About Rwanda-Nordic Forum Event

Introduction

In recent years, Rwanda and Nordic countries have built a dynamic partnership, marked by increased collaboration and shared commitment to sustainable development. Past initiatives, including Swedish business fora in Rwanda (2019-2021), the Rwandan delegation’s visit to Finland in October 2021, and the Rwanda Business Forum in Finland (September 2023), highlight this growing relationship. The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda to the Nordic Countries is pleased to announce the Rwanda-Nordics Forum, scheduled for April 3-5, 2025, in Kigali.

Purpose of the Forum

This forum aims to further strengthen bilateral ties and foster sustainable development, innovation, and economic growth between the Nordic countries and Rwanda. Additionally, the forum will emphasize Rwanda’s strategic role as a gateway to East Africa and the importance of sectors such as digital infrastructure, finance, entrepreneurship, and education in enabling economic growth and regional integration.

Objectives

  1. Facilitate Strategic Partnerships: Bring together Nordic and Rwandan entrepreneurs, investors, government representatives, and educational institutions to explore potential partnerships across key sectors, including investment, education, digital infrastructure, and culture.
  2. Promote Trade and Investment: Showcase the potential of the Rwandan and East African markets for Nordic businesses, emphasizing Rwanda’s role as a gateway for Nordic
  3. companies to access the fast-growing East African market.
  4. Highlight Rwanda’s Business-Friendly Environment: Present Rwanda as a premier destination for investment, emphasizing its conducive business environment, regulatory reforms, and success stories.
  5. Enhance Business Opportunities with Nordic Countries: Equip Rwandan and East African companies with strategies to engage with Nordic businesses, access funding, and navigate the Nordic business landscape.
  6. Encourage Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: Promote cultural exchange, educational partnerships, and innovation-driven initiatives between Rwanda and Nordic countries.

Themes and Focus Areas

The Nordic-Rwanda Forum will focus on attracting Nordic investment into Rwanda and facilitating strategic partnerships in the following sectors:

  • ICT (Fintech, Digital Infrastructure, E-commerce, AI, Cybersecurity, IoT)
  • Agriculture and Agro-processing (including coffee)
  • Health Care Infrastructure and Technology
  • Manufacturing (e.g., wood and textile industries)
  • Financial Services
  • Education (Higher education, vocational training, and innovative practices)
  • Renewable Energy
  • Sustainable Mining
  • Tourism, Arts, and Culture

Key Stakeholders

  • Nordic Institutions: Finnpartnership (Finland), Innovation Norway, and Business Sweden will contribute their expertise in fostering Nordic-African business collaborations. Leading universities and institutions from Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland will participate in discussions on education and innovation.
  • Rwanda Development Board (RDB): Overseeing investment promotion and highlighting Rwanda’s investment opportunities.
  • Kigali Financial LTD, Africa newest financial hub, and the 3rd Africa member of the World Alliance of International Financial Centers, with the mission to be the catalyst of a safe, reputable, and pro-business environment in Rwanda, with the vision to become a preferred financial center for international investments in Africa.
  • Ministry of Education (MINEDUC): Supporting academic exchanges and vocational training initiatives.
  • Private Sector Federation (PSF): Engaging Rwandan businesses to maximize forum participation.
  • Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda to the Nordic Countries and Nordic embassies in Rwanda: Coordinating pre-forum activities to ensure high-level participation.
  • REMODE: A Finnish company connecting Nordic and African markets, mobilizing participants from Nordic countries, and facilitating partnerships with Rwandan stakeholders.
  • Hills Connect: A consulting company founded by Rwandans in Finland, instrumental in past forums and key to organizing this event.

Program Overview

 Day 1: Trade and Business

  • Rwanda-focused sessions: Presentations by the Rwandan government on doing business in Rwanda.
  • Nordic-focused sessions: Exploring business opportunities in and with Nordic countries, with support from institutions like Finnpartnership, Innovation Norway, and Business Sweden.

Day 2: Sector-Specific Sessions

  • Topics: Education, digital infrastructure, financial services, and renewable energy.
  • Workshops and panels led by Nordic and Rwandan experts, with opportunities for matchmaking.

Day 3: Deal-Making and Closing

  • Formalization of partnerships, signing of MOUs, and establishment of joint ventures.

Throughout the forum, the Business Lounge, led by REMODE, will enable participants to network, negotiate, and finalize collaborations.

 Expected Outcomes

  • Strategic Partnerships and Investment: Tangible collaborations between Nordic and Rwandan businesses, educational institutions, and governments.
  • Innovation and Sustainability: Joint ventures in ICT, digital infrastructure, education, and renewable energy.

Conclusion

The Nordic-Rwanda Forum is set to be a pivotal event, forging stronger connections between Nordic countries and Rwanda while opening doors to new opportunities across East Africa and Northern Europe. By focusing on strategic partnerships, investment opportunities, and innovative collaborations, the forum aims to drive mutual growth and prosperity.