[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Customs Enhancement Efficiency – AEO Scheme Digitalization" implementor="TMA , RRA" target_group="Rwanda" project_value="$200,000.00" implementation_period="2018-2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]The AEO Scheme Digitalization programme is building on what was achieved under the AEO project in Strategy 1 where a proper AEO scheme was established and at least 25 companies are subscribed to the scheme.  The aim of the digitalization effort is to simplify the process of applying, auditing, vetting and accrediting a firm to AEO status.  Included in the project is the incorporation of the Rwanda AEO scheme to the regional framework that will also be automated to enable mutual recognition of Rwanda AEO in other EAC member states.  This initiative will result into: Reduced time of accreditation; Reduced cost for accreditation to businesses; Reduced time for vetting and auditing; Reduced costs for vetting and auditing; Mutual recognition of Rwanda AEO across borders (in EAC member states under similar schemes) What: The following are the main interventions/solutions being done: Automation of the Application process for AEO accreditation; Automation of the Vetting and Auditing Process; Automation of the accreditation process; Cross border information sharing with EAC member states on AEO Accreditation How: The project will be implemented by UNCTAD in conjunction with RRA.  There will be a project team set up consisting of representation from RRA and private sector association.  The project team will also coordinate activities with the EAC-wide project that is being run from Arusha. Contact: Jackie Zizane: [email protected] Jacob Hodari:  [email protected] Doreca Musenga:  [email protected] Lucy Mudaheranwa:  [email protected] John Kulova: [email protected]...

This handbook aims to provide exporters with information on the export process.

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Rusizi II CBT programme" implementor="RTDA, TMA" target_group="Rwanda" project_value="USD 5,00,000" implementation_period="2019-2023" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]Rusizi border post is located in the western part of Rwanda and is the main entrance and exit border between Rusizi and Bukavu trading areas used mainly by heavy trucks destined to and from to Bukavu. The border post has been characterised by old small infrastructure with no clear operational flow of goods and passenger handling. Unharmonized cumbersome procedures that do not facilitate smooth flow of business at the border post. It is expected that the modern border post will cater for the heavy truck traffic as well as smaller-scale traders. What: An OSBP is a border facility that combines two stops for national border control processing into one and consolidates border control functions in a shared space for exiting one country and entering another. The project will involve construction of an OSBP facilities office buildings, parking and inspection shed among others and implement Integrated Border Management (IBM) which brings all border authorities to work together for smooth attainment of intended results. Therefore, the project will include: Improved physical infrastructure at the border which includes; customs and immigration offices, police post, customs inspection sheds and warehouse, parking yards, clearing and forwarding Agents offices among others. Setting up the institutional and legal framework necessary for collaboration in border management at inter-agency and bilateral levels; Reviewing and implementing OSBP procedures which are simple and ease the movement of goods and persons; Modernised and simplified customs processes; Improved...

Feasibility Study on the Establishment of an Online Portal for Trading in Freight Services (e-freightex) in East Africa

[vc_row][vc_column][custom_inner_menus select_menu="project"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][single_project_block_1 heading="Lake Kivu Transport" implementor="TMA in coordination with Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA)" target_group="Cross-Border Traders" project_value="$ 14,284,000" implementation_period="2018 - 2022" download_btn_text="Download Project PDF" download_btn_link="#url"]As part of Rwanda’s Vision 2020 and EDPRS 2, the GoR intends to implement an inland waterways cargo system on Lake Kivu. The TMA commissioned a feasibility study for the programme in 2017 which assessed the project as being both economically and financially viable. Water transport in Rwanda is currently unexploited and TMA support will help the Government to attract investment into this mode of transport which has been found to be both cheaper and safer than road transport. TMA will support the Government of Rwanda to construct basic harbour facilities in two port towns of Rubavu and Rusizi and attract private sector investors to operate ferry services on the lake while the Government of Rwanda will secure funds internally to fund the development of Karongi and Nkora ports. The choice of these locations is based on TMA commissioned a feasibility study of 2017 which includes a comprehensive traffic survey and analysis of project benefits where transport benefits are expected to reach and $ 20.4 million as annual savings and 17.7 as a result of avoided fatalities. Increased lake connectivity will increase economic gains from Cross Border Trade by offering better opportunities for traders to select the crossings where they get better prices. Key commodities traded include cement which moves from the will move from South to North, while potatoes and dairy products will move from...

TradeMark Africa (TMA) officially handed over the newly constructed Rusizi II One Stop Border Post (OSBP) to the Government of Rwanda on 5 June 2025. This significant event paves the way for faster and more efficient cross-border trade and transit between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The handover ceremony was led by Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Abimana Fidele, marking the completion of the infrastructure works ahead of the facility’s official commissioning. The project is anticipated to significantly reduce border crossing times and trade costs, thereby improving regional connectivity and fostering economic resilience within the Great Lakes region. The OSBP features comprehensive facilities designed to accommodate various border officials, including customs and immigration personnel. It also includes a quarantine facility and advanced e-gate systems. These e-gates are specifically designed to expedite processing for travellers using passports, laissez-passer, or national identity cards. Furthermore, the Rusizi II OSBP is equipped to enhance public health controls and promote climate resilience. It also specifically addresses the needs of informal and small-scale traders, with a particular focus on women. This support includes business development training, market linkages, and improved inspection facilities, ensuring a more inclusive trading environment. TMA’s Country Director for Rwanda highlighted the expected impact of the facility, stating, "One Stop Border Posts have been shown to reduce border crossing times by an average of 70%. We expect Rusizi II to the desired results, benefiting businesses, traders, and communities across the region." Permanent Secretary Abimana echoed this sentiment,...