Rwanda eyes cross-border markets to enhance exports

Mar 23, 2017: The Rwandan government is looking at cross-border markets planned at key border areas to improve trade and exports to the region.

According to James Tayebwa, the in-charge of regional integration (cross-border trade) at Ministry of Trade, Industry and East African Community Affairs, a total of eight cross-border markets will be constructed by the government at different crossing points to facilitate trade between Rwanda and neighbouring countries – DR Congo, Burundi, Uganda and Tanzania.

Tayebwa was giving an update on the ongoing works of the Rubavu Cross-border Market that is being built by government and TradeMark East Africa. Funds for Nyamasheke, Kagitumba and Rusumo cross-border markets have also been secured and construction is expected to start in August, according Tayebwa.

He said the government was also mobilising resources to set up cross-border markets at Nemba, Gatuna and Rwemasha markets.

Once completed, the markets will have warehouse facilities, among others. Traders and local firms say the facilities will support cross-border businesses and could also help enhance Rwanda’s exports to the region.

Tayebwa was optimistic the warehouses will address the challenge of lack of storage facilities by firms involved in export trade and ease access to Rwandan products by regional buyers.