Event Recap: From Reform to Returns — Rwanda’s Investment Story

The OAGF and Oxford Africa Business Alliance hosted His Excellency Johnston Busingye, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, for a special lecture titled “From Reform to Returns: Investing in Africa’s Modern Markets.” The event brought together students and faculty from the Saïd Business School and across Oxford’s departments, including Economics, African Studies, and Public Policy, for a candid discussion on Africa’s investment landscape — with Rwanda as a leading example.

Following a warm reception, His Excellency — accompanied by Communications Officer Mr. Fred Rugamba — delivered his keynote address, “The Rwanda Opportunity.” He traced Rwanda’s remarkable transformation journey under Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation, emphasizing the nation’s stability, strong governance, and digital-first approach to development. Highlighting Rwanda’s efficient business environment, clean urban infrastructure, and attractive tax regime, he presented the country as a gateway for investors seeking long-term, sustainable growth in Africa.

A focal point of his address was the Kigali International Financial Centre, which he described as a growing hub for innovation, sustainability, and international finance — positioning Rwanda as a “proof-of-concept nation” for forward-thinking investors and entrepreneurs.

The interactive Q&A that followed showcased the audience’s deep interest in Rwanda’s trajectory. Students engaged His Excellency on topics such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), opportunities in the green economy, and Rwanda’s push toward full digitalization.

The discussion concluded on a forward-looking note, with both sides expressing enthusiasm for expanded academic partnerships, research collaborations, and investment linkages between Rwanda and the University of Oxford community.