Authorities in Nyagatare District have announced plans to allocate Rwf40 million for a feasibility study aimed at upgrading and expanding the district’s industrial park, in a move designed to attract more investors and boost local manufacturing.
The industrial zone, located in Rutaraka, Nyagatare Sector, spans over 200 hectares. District officials say the study will guide the development of critical infrastructure, including roads, to unlock its full potential.
The site already hosts Inyange Milk Powder Plant, the first factory in Rwanda and the wider East African region to produce powdered milk. Four additional agro-processing factories are currently under construction within the zone, focusing on value addition in agriculture and livestock.
Residents have welcomed the expansion plans, citing employment opportunities as a top priority.
“We need more factories so that we can access jobs closer to home instead of travelling long distances,” said Gilbert Niyibizi, a resident who spoke to state broadcaster Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA).
Of the 220 hectares designated for industrial use, about 80 hectares have already been allocated for ongoing projects. Under the district’s five-year development plan, an additional 50 hectares will be incorporated.
However, inadequate infrastructure—particularly access roads—continues to hamper operations for existing factories.
Abatoni Marry, Director of Nyagatare Maize Processing, told RBA that the factory processes more than 1,000 tonnes of maize annually but faces logistical challenges due to poor road conditions.
“The roads leading here are in bad condition. Trucks delivering maize are often heavily loaded, and this becomes a serious constraint,” she said.
She added that transporting finished maize flour to markets is equally challenging, stressing the urgent need for improved road infrastructure to ensure smooth operations.
The maize processing plant is one of three factories currently operating effectively within the industrial zone.
Wilson Kabagamba, President of the Nyagatare District Council, said authorities have completed an initial site assessment and approved part of the budget for priority infrastructure, beginning with roads.
“We have assessed the area and approved the budget to start putting in place essential infrastructure, starting with roads. Although the funds are not yet sufficient, we are confident that additional resources will be mobilised,” he said.
District leaders believe that expanding infrastructure—including roads, electricity and water supply—will significantly enhance the park’s attractiveness to investors.
Officials further revealed that 12 new investors have committed to setting up factories in the zone. Once completed, these and other planned industries are expected to create more than 7,000 jobs.
The Rwf40 million allocation will finance the technical study, with actual construction of roads and other infrastructure expected to begin in the next fiscal year.
