Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Rwanda is actively leveraging its diaspora talent, especially in finance and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), through a new initiative aimed at addressing critical skill gaps and fostering sustainable development. Led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the program targets skilled Rwandans abroad, focusing on sectors such as investment, banking, and fintech, with goals to enhance financial inclusion, innovation, and vocational skills training in Rwanda. The campaign will continue through 2025.
At a recent virtual discussion in early October, government officials, industry leaders, and diaspora professionals came together to explore how the diaspora can support Rwanda’s development across these sectors. Rwanda is aspiring to be a fintech hub, and the new financial technology strategy aims to attract $200 million in investments by 2029.
Jean Marie Kananura, Chief Investment Officer at Rwanda Finance Limited, highlighted the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC) as a strategic move to position Rwanda as a preferred financial jurisdiction for investments in Africa. He emphasized Rwanda’s focus on attracting world-class talent to achieve this vision and encouraged global experts to join efforts in making Kigali a Pan-African financial center.
Diaspora professional Nicaise Ishimwe, co-founder of the tech platform SheUps, has volunteered at institutions in Rwanda, helping train students in mobile app development. Currently at Amazon, Ishimwe stressed the diaspora’s role in transferring knowledge and fostering global networks, stating, “Find that niche, seize the opportunity, and make it happen.”
Yves Karatwa, Technical Advisor at the National Bank of Rwanda and a former diaspora member, highlighted the impact of increased remittances, which surged from $65.1 million in 2010 to $550 million in 2023, now representing over six percent of Rwanda’s GDP. Karatwa underscored the diaspora’s potential to bridge financial gaps through contributions to digital finance and banking innovation.
François Ngoboka, Chief Skills Officer at the Ministry of Labour, mentioned plans to list job openings on a portal dedicated to the Rwandan diaspora, prioritizing Rwandans abroad before considering external candidates. This approach, he noted, will help Rwanda harness its diaspora talent more effectively, strengthening the country’s technical workforce and overall economic development.
