President Paul Kagame received the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Amb. Claver Gatete, at Village Urugwiro on Friday, August 28, 2026, for discussions on Rwanda’s development journey and the country’s sustainable development goals.
A message posted on the Office of the President’s X account said the two discussed Rwanda’s development journey and efforts to achieve sustainable development goals.
The meeting comes as Rwanda and UNECA continue to cooperate in several areas aimed at supporting the country’s economic transformation, including mineral processing, agriculture, trade and infrastructure development.
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Rwanda and UNECA Strengthen Cooperation
The partnership between Rwanda and UNECA includes projects designed to increase local production, add value to Rwanda’s resources and strengthen the country’s economic development.
One of the areas of cooperation is mineral processing, where Rwanda has been seeking to increase the value of minerals before they are exported.
The partnership also extends to agriculture and agro-processing, sectors that are considered important for creating jobs, increasing production and improving the value of agricultural products.
UNECA Supports the Gako Beef Project
In 2024, Amb. Claver Gatete said UNECA was ready to work with Rwanda on the Gako Beef project.
The project is designed to process meat for the Rwandan market and for export to international markets.
Such projects are intended to support Rwanda’s efforts to develop agro-processing industries and create more value from agricultural production within the country.
Gabiro Agribusiness Hub
UNECA has also expressed its commitment to supporting the Gabiro Agribusiness Hub, a major agricultural development project in Rwanda.
The project involves modern agricultural activities covering approximately 16,000 hectares.
The initiative is expected to contribute to increased agricultural productivity, food production and the development of commercial agriculture.
It also fits into Rwanda’s broader strategy of transforming agriculture from mainly subsistence farming into a more productive and market-oriented sector.
Cooperation in Trade and Transport
Rwanda and UNECA have also explored ways of improving trade and the movement of goods across borders.
One of the projects discussed is Akagera Navigation, which would explore the use of waterways to facilitate the transportation of goods toward Kagitumba.
Improved transport connections could help reduce the cost and time involved in moving goods while strengthening trade links between Rwanda and neighboring countries.
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Rwanda’s Development Journey
The discussions between President Kagame and Amb. Gatete come as Rwanda continues to pursue long-term development objectives focused on economic transformation, job creation, industrialization, modern agriculture and increased regional trade.
UNECA, as the United Nations body responsible for promoting the economic and social development of Africa, works with African countries on policies and programmes aimed at supporting sustainable development.
The meeting therefore highlighted the importance of continued cooperation between Rwanda and continental institutions as the country works toward achieving its development and sustainability goals.
