Prime Minister Dr Justin Nsengiyumva has urged East African Community (EAC) countries to invest more in processing leather products locally instead of exporting raw hides and skins, saying this would increase their value and help regional businesses compete in international markets.
He made the remarks on Tuesday, November 3, while officially opening the 26th EAC Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair at Gikondo in Kigali.
This year’s exhibition focuses on developing value chains for leather products, vegetables, fruits and flowers across the region.
Nsengiyumva said East African countries should strengthen their leather industries to produce footwear and other high-value goods capable of competing with products from other parts of the world.
He also urged businesses to view East Africa as a single market rather than separate national markets, encouraging greater regional cooperation and expansion across EAC member states.
The Prime Minister called on manufacturers, hotels and traders to source more goods and services from MSMEs by integrating them into their supply chains. He also urged financial institutions to develop lending products that respond to the needs and financial capacity of smaller businesses.
He described MSMEs as an important pillar of regional economies because they create jobs, promote innovation and provide opportunities, particularly for women and young people.
“Micro, small and medium enterprises are a vital pillar of our economies. They create jobs, drive innovation and open doors to opportunities, particularly for women and young people who have ambitions and aspirations in an increasingly interconnected world,” he said.
However, he noted that many MSMEs continue to face challenges, including limited access to affordable financing, high taxes and difficulties moving goods across national borders.
To address these barriers, Nsengiyumva called for the removal of trade and non-tariff barriers, simpler customs procedures, improved transport systems and increased investment in businesses operated by MSMEs.
The 26th EAC MSME Trade Fair opened on October 30 and will run until November 8, bringing together businesses from across the region to build partnerships, explore new markets and promote cross-border trade.
