As the world shifts towards a multipolar reality, the Global South’s influence is rising. Countries across Africa, the Middle East and Asia are not only recognizing their individual value but also their collective strength when working together. Rwanda’s emerging economic partnership with the UAE is a powerful example of this, rooted in historical trade ties within the Indian Ocean, connecting Africa to the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia.
For Africa, often viewed as the next frontier for economic growth, the lack of an obvious “capital” of innovation and investment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Rwanda is building a reputation as the dynamic hub of African transformation, capitalizing on unprecedented progress made in infrastructure and governance over the past three decades. Similarly, the UAE, with its investments in key sectors, is playing an active role in Africa’s future growth.
This alignment also contrasts with the narrative of the “scramble for Africa” driven by China, the U.S., France, and Russia, which has often been marked by uneven outcomes. The UAE, with its historical connections and shared vision for growth, offers a balanced and sustainable partnership that is already driving long-term progress.
Deepening economic ties
The UAE has become a pivotal partner for Rwanda, with trade between the two nations exceeding $1.1 billion in 2023. The relationship is underscored by the formation of a Joint Committee for Cooperation (JCC), with the first meeting held in Kigali in 2023. The JCC was established to deepen collaboration in trade, tourism, and investment.
Moreover, the partnership extends to the financial sector. The Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to foster cooperation in fintech, investment, and financial services. Both countries are targeting similar sectors for growth, including logistics and renewable energy. UAE investments in Rwanda’s logistics infrastructure are a clear and tangible example of this collaboration. DP World developed the Kigali Logistics Platform, designed to enhance trade efficiency and position Rwanda as a gateway to East African markets.
Both UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Rwanda President Paul Kagame are known for their strategic, long-term approaches to leadership and economic development. President Kagame has led Rwanda’s transformation from a nation recovering from genocide into a fast-growing, investor-friendly hub in Africa, while Sheikh Mohamed has been instrumental in diversifying the UAE’s economy beyond oil. This shared focus on economic diversification, innovation, and governance has helped strengthen their friendship. President Kagame’s regular visits to the UAE, including his participation in multiple World Government Summits, reflect the strength of this bond.
Broader impact of investments
The growing ties between Rwanda and the UAE are emblematic of broader shifts across the Global South, such as the recent expansion of BRICS. As historical trade routes linking Africa, the Middle East, and Asia reemerge, progressive countries like Rwanda are positioning themselves as gateways for trade and innovation. UAE investments are helping build the infrastructure, financial systems, and connectivity that Rwanda needs to thrive in the future.
For example, DP World’s Kigali Logistics Platform is reducing trade costs and enhancing Rwanda’s role as a logistics hub. These types of partnerships are not only beneficial for Rwanda and its neighbors, but also align with the broader goals of Gulf nations to expand their influence and investment footprint across Africa.
Unlike other global powers whose engagement in Africa has arguably been marked by uneven outcomes, the UAE’s approach is rooted in shared economic interests and mutual respect. This alignment creates opportunities for joint growth, making Rwanda a crucial partner in the UAE’s strategy for Africa’s future.
Partners for Africa’s growth
Rwanda’s growing economic relationships with the UAE are more than just about trade — they represent a strategic partnership for Africa’s future. As the world becomes more multipolar, Rwanda and the UAE and its Gulf neighbors are aligning their visions for long-term growth, creating opportunities for innovation, infrastructure development, and regional leadership.
For investors and entrepreneurs looking to be part of Africa’s rise, Rwanda offers a unique opportunity, underpinned by strong bonds with the UAE. These relationships are not only driving Rwanda’s economic and social development but also positioning the country as a model for how Africa can leverage partnerships to drive its own transformation.
Salvatore Lavallo is the managing director – Middle East and Africa at the Apeiron Investment Group. He has spent the last 14 years living between East Africa, where he spearheads civil society organizations in agriculture and the arts, and the UAE, where he has worked at McKinsey and Company, the Tony Blair Institute, and most recently as the head of FDI attraction at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. Salvatore previously held the record for Youngest Person to Visit Every Country. He is a graduate of NYU and the United World College.
