Nyarugenge Traders urged to tap Industrial Parks to boost local production

Traders in Nyarugenge District have been urged to invest in local industrial parks and shift from importing goods to producing them locally.

The call was made Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, during a Private Sector Federation (PSF) ceremony in Nyarugenge to recognize outgoing leaders for their dedication and service.

Nyarugenge has industrial parks in Nzove and Mageragere, but officials say they remain underused despite government investment in infrastructure such as water and electricity.

John Cyivenge, president of PSF in Nyarugenge, urged traders to move beyond traditional businesses and consider establishing industries.

“Traders should understand the importance of industries, which is different from the businesses they have been doing,” Cyivenge said. “They should start establishing industries while clearly understanding why they are doing so.”

Hakizimana Gregory, commonly known as Shema Shop, called for awareness campaigns to encourage traders who import goods to consider producing them in Rwanda.

“There is a need for awareness campaigns so that more traders who currently import goods from abroad can instead produce those goods in our country,” Hakizimana said.

Ingangare Alexis, executive secretary of Nyarugenge District, said the low use of the industrial parks remains a concern and called on the private sector to take advantage of the available infrastructure.

“Looking at how these industrial parks are currently being utilized, the level is still low,” Ingangare said. “What is missing is the involvement of the private sector so that we can make good use of these areas and have industries here.”

He said greater local production would help reduce reliance on imported goods and create opportunities for consumers to buy locally produced products.

Sibomana Papy, a trader who represents people with disabilities and sells equipment for people with disabilities, said people with disabilities should also benefit from opportunities created through joint businesses and industrial development.

“As we are being encouraged to engage in joint businesses, we need to ensure that people with disabilities are not left behind,” Sibomana said. “We should look at how we can also participate in visible businesses and make the most of the opportunities available.”

PSF in Nyarugenge District has about 200,000 members, including 1,320 zone leaders.