Rwanda and Brazil have formalised new economic cooperation agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, expanding investment flows and promoting sustainable development across key sectors of their economies.
The agreements were signed on Wednesday during the Rwanda–Brazil Economic Cooperation Forum held in Kigali, which brought together government officials, business leaders and private sector representatives from both countries.
Under the first agreement, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), represented by its chief executive officer Jean Guy Afrika, partnered with the Brazilian Export Promotion and Investment Agency (APEX-Brazil), represented by its president Jorge Viana.
A second agreement was signed between APEX-Brazil and Rwanda’s Private Sector Federation (PSF), represented by its chief executive officer Stephen Ruzibiza.
The partnerships are designed to deepen collaboration between Rwandan and Brazilian businesses, facilitate market access and unlock new investment opportunities in priority sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, energy and services.
Speaking at the forum, RDB chief executive officer Jean Guy Afrika said the cooperation framework seeks to connect companies from both countries, promote joint ventures and position Rwanda as a strategic gateway for Brazilian investors seeking access to regional markets.
“Brazil and Rwanda have complementary economic strengths,” Afrika said. “Brazil brings global expertise in agriculture, industry and energy, while Rwanda offers a stable, investor-friendly environment, efficient institutions and access to the wider East and Southern African markets.”
Brazil’s ambassador to Rwanda, Irene Vida Gala, described the forum as a significant step in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
In a recent interview with the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), Ambassador Vida said Rwanda’s development model—anchored in long-term planning, good governance and investment in sectors such as agriculture, education and sports—has positioned the country as an attractive destination for international partnerships.
She added that closer engagement between Rwandan and Brazilian institutions and businesses would be critical to building sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The ambassador also commended Rwanda’s progress in improving the business climate, reducing poverty and maintaining high standards of cleanliness, noting that these achievements continue to leave a strong impression on Brazilian visitors and investors.
