Rwanda–Kenya Trade Week : a promising cross-border dynamic
From June 25 to 27, 2025, Kigali came alive with commercial and collaborative exchanges during the Rwanda–Kenya Trade Week. Entrepreneurs, institutions, and experts gathered to explore opportunities, strengthen regional integration, and stimulate growth in East Africa—especially through the AfCFTA and PAPSS.
Report by Bertrand Munyazikwiye
The Rwanda–Kenya Trade Week, held from June 25 to 27, 2025, in the heart of Kigali, marks a new milestone in deepening trade relations between two economic engines of the East African Community. Over the course of three days, more than 300 participants—including entrepreneurs, experts, public and financial decision-makers—took part in exhibitions, B2B forums, and panels to strengthen economic ties across borders.
Economic integration in action
Regionalization is no longer a promise—it is in motion. Through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Rwanda and Kenya have made their shared vision of a common market a reality. A concrete example: Kenyan exports to Kigali surged by more than 240%, rising from USD 35.6 million in September to USD 121.4 million in October 2024. Rwanda’s exports—particularly to the UAE, DRC, and the UK—also increased by 61.8% over the same period.
PAPSS: A key enabler
One of the week’s highlights was the adoption of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) by the Bank of Kigali and KCB Group. Thanks to this system—launched by Afreximbank and the AU—transactions can now be conducted in local currencies, in real time, and with lower costs. It’s a leap toward true financial integration: “This is a turning point for intra-African trade,” said Mike Ogbalu III, CEO of PAPSS.
“The money is already here!”
Denis Karrera, head of an investment fund in Kigali, emphasized: “The money is already here—regional investments matter, not just foreign ones.” For Bernard Kirago (Scribe Services, Nairobi), such forums broaden perspectives: “Traveling helps you understand differences in business practices.” Jean-Marc Manzy (Oumougani Fashions) highlighted “local and regional opportunities.” Dr. Privilege Karakay-Madoy (Pretoria Institute) confirmed it is “a platform to build a skills ecosystem and strengthen collaborations.”
Weak financial integration, regulatory barriers, trade tensions…
Nonetheless, challenges remain: weak financial integration, regulatory barriers, trade tensions (especially in the dairy sector with Tanzania), and Rwanda’s trade deficit of USD 363 million in October 2024. The event also showcased potential solutions: real estate financing to meet urban growth, SME revitalization, regulatory harmonization, and an intensified regional political-economic dialogue to boost FDI.
Regional cooperation is a powerful lever to transform trade into inclusive growth
The Rwanda–Kenya Trade Week 2025 reaffirms that regional cooperation is a powerful lever to transform trade into inclusive growth. Whether Rwandan or Kenyan entrepreneurs, investors, or institutions, this event provides a robust platform to forge lasting partnerships rooted in AfCFTA and East Africa’s integrated economic vision.
