NAEB Pushes to Reach $1.5 Billion in Exports by 2029

Kigali, January 27, 2026 - The National Agricultural Export Promotion Board (NAEB) continues its efforts to expand Rwanda’s agricultural exports, aiming to achieve $1.5 billion in export earnings by 2029, as part of the country’s Second National Strategy for Accelerated Development (NST2) and Vision 2050, according to NAEB Director General Bizimana Claude. NAEB is working to facilitate timely export of agricultural and livestock products, focusing on market expansion, particularly in West and Central Africa. In December 2025, Rwanda signed a cooperation agreement with its Embassy in the Republic of Congo to export fruits and vegetables, following Bizimana’s working visit. The partnership also involves RwandAir, which helps address logistical challenges, including limited cargo space, ensuring products reach markets efficiently. On January 21, 2026, 17 tons of Rwandan fruits and vegetables were shipped directly to Congo-Brazzaville, demonstrating improved coordination between government institutions and embassies to reduce transit delays, prevent losses, and increase foreign exchange earnings. Bizimana emphasized the role of cold storage in processing, preserving, and consolidating goods to maintain quality until they reach international markets. He also highlighted that export initiatives respond to the needs of Rwandans living abroad, ensuring they have access to local products. Rwanda’s exports continue to grow across Africa and beyond. Between December 22-26, 2025, the country earned $15,647,992 from exports to countries including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, UAE, Germany, and France, while vegetables alone totaled 241 tons, with the UAE, UK, and Spain as top destinations. Agricultural exports remain a major source of income, with $893.1 million earned in 2025. Between January 12-16, 2026, exports generated more than $15.2 million (22.2 billion Rwf), and from January 19-23, 2026, they earned $13,947,661 (over 20 billion Rwf). NAEB and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock aim to surpass $1 billion in agricultural export revenue for the 2025/26 fiscal year, as part of ongoing efforts to expand Rwanda’s presence in regional and international markets.