Second Rwanda–Nordic and Baltic Forum boosts dialogue on investment and innovation

For the second consecutive year, UR co-organized the two-day Rwanda–Nordic and Baltic Business Forum, bringing together policymakers, investors, and institutions to strengthen collaboration in education, innovation, trade, and sustainable development. Building on the inaugural forum held at the University last year, this edition convened business and education leaders from Rwanda and the Nordic–Baltic region for in-depth discussions on investment and partnerships across priority sectors.

Speaking at the event, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Sweden, Dr. Diane Gashumba, noted that the forum continues to prove its value as a platform where companies, academic institutions, and public sector leaders come together to explore partnerships and deepen collaboration between Rwanda and the Nordic–Baltic region.

“The forum continues to serve as a catalyst for dialogue that is now translating into concrete engagement across sectors,” she said.

On his part, UR Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura Didas expressed satisfaction with the forum’s growth, both in participation and in the expanding range of themes covered. He commended the platform for bringing together universities, industries, policymakers, and innovators from Rwanda and the Nordic region to share a common vision for progress and sustainable development.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura Didas while delivering his remarks

Prof. Kayihura further highlighted the long-standing relationship between Rwanda and Nordic countries, built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to addressing global challenges. He noted that the University of Rwanda has particularly benefited from this partnership.

“A notable example is our collaboration with Sweden through the UR–Sweden Programme. In 2023, we celebrated 20 years of this bilateral research cooperation, marked by significant achievements, including the support of over 100 PhD graduates,” he said.

Among the key speakers was the Ambassador of Sweden to Rwanda, Mr. Dag Sjöögren, who described Rwanda as a remarkable country with a strong history, steady and rapid development, a vibrant spirit of innovation, and an exceptional level of ambition.

Group photo of participants at the Rwanda–Nordic and Baltic Business Forum, proudly co-organized by the University of Rwanda for the second time

“Your progress in digitalization, fintech, and investment facilitation complements what Sweden has to offer,” he noted, expressing hope that the forum would help identify new opportunities where Nordic–Baltic expertise and Rwandan ambition can work together for mutual benefit.