United Capital Financial Services Rwanda Ltd has been licensed by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to operate as an investment bank, with the group selecting Rwanda as its East and Central Africa regional headquarters.
The decision marks a major boost for Rwanda’s ambition to position Kigali as a leading financial hub on the continent and reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s capital markets.
CMA Chief Executive Officer Romeo Ngarambe said the move by a major African financial institution underscores Rwanda’s rising credibility as an investment destination.
“When a company like United Capital, with strong experience and a solid track record, makes a firm and deliberate decision to establish its East and Central Africa headquarters in Kigali, it sends a powerful message that no report or ranking can substitute,” he said.
He added that such decisions reflect confidence in Rwanda’s stable market environment, strong regulatory systems and long-term economic outlook.
United Capital Plc is one of Africa’s leading investment banking groups, with extensive experience in financial advisory services, asset management and capital market operations, particularly across West Africa.
Its expansion into Kigali positions Rwanda as a strategic gateway for its operations in East and Central Africa, reinforcing the country’s reputation for ease of doing business, legal predictability and investor-friendly policies.
Under the licence granted by CMA, United Capital Financial Services Rwanda Ltd will offer a full range of investment banking services, including corporate finance advisory, capital raising, infrastructure financing structuring, securities and wealth management services, as well as institutional capacity building.
The Capital Market Authority is mandated to regulate and develop Rwanda’s capital market sector, ensuring transparency, investor protection and the prevention of financial malpractice.
Officials say the entry of established regional players such as United Capital is expected to deepen Rwanda’s financial markets and expand access to structured investment services across the region.
