High Level Steering Committee Reviews Progress on Expanding Digital Opportunities for Cross-Border Trade in Rwanda

On 17 March 2026, the second High-Level Steering Committee Meeting of the Amplifying Digital Opportunities for Cross-Border Trade (ADO-CBT) Joint Programme, funded by the European Union,  brought together Government of Rwanda officials, participating United Nations agencies (ITC, IOM, UNCDF, and UNCTAD), and development partners to review progress and define the next phase of support for small-scale cross-border traders.

The ADO-CBT Joint Programme remains a strategic intervention advancing Rwanda’s ambition to build a dynamic, inclusive, and digitally enabled economy, in line with the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2). It is focused on strengthening digital trade governance, expanding financial inclusion, and equipping traders with the digital skills needed to participate more effectively in regional markets while also contributing to the EU Global Gateway Strategy on digital transformation, inclusive digital economies, and connectivity. As emphasized by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr. Antoine Kajangwe, Chair of the Steering Committee, “promoting inclusive cross-border trade requires strong coordination among national institutions and our UN partners to ensure that our efforts are aligned and deliver real impact for traders. 

Advancing digital trade systems

The Steering Committee reviewed significant strides made in improving Rwanda’s digital trade ecosystem. Ongoing joint efforts include strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks, as well as enhancing platforms such as the Rwanda Trade Portal and the e-Regulations system. These interventions are improving the efficiency of cross-border procedures, transparency, and reducing the cost of doing business—particularly for small-scale traders who often face structural barriers to formal trade. The ADO-CBT Joint Programme directly contributes to the implementation of Rwanda’s NST2 priorities by supporting trade modernization, digital transformation, regional integration, and private sector competitiveness. In doing so, the programme is helping position Rwanda as an increasingly efficient, connected, and competitive regional trade and logistics hub.

Strengthening digital and financial inclusion

The Steering Committee also highlighted progress in advancing digital and financial literacy among traders. A key innovation is the development of the Lenga application, which provides practical guidance on budgeting, savings, and responsible borrowing, while facilitating access to digital financial services. Field assessments conducted across border districts continue to inform programme design, ensuring that interventions respond to the real needs of traders and cooperatives. These insights are critical in supporting livelihoods, building resilience, and promoting inclusive economic participation.

Supporting sustainable cross-border trade

Beyond digital tools, the ADO-CBT Joint Programme is strengthening the overall capacity of small-scale cross-border traders through targeted training, improved access to market information, and initiatives to unlock financing opportunities. The Steering Committee reaffirmed that cross-border trade remains a critical source of livelihoods across the Great Lakes region and a cornerstone of regional integration. Enhancing its efficiency and inclusivity is essential for sustainable economic growth.

A strategic national priority

The Chair of the Steering Committee, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr. Antoine Kajangwe, reiterated the ADO-CBT Joint Programme’s alignment with Rwanda’s long-term development vision: “Digital trade is central to Rwanda’s transformation agenda. By empowering small-scale cross-border traders with the right tools, skills, and access to finance, we are not only improving livelihoods but also strengthening regional integration and building a more resilient and inclusive economy. 

Looking ahead

The Steering Committee identified key priorities for the next phase, including expanding partnerships, scaling up digital platforms, and exploring innovative financing mechanisms to improve access to digital solutions. Ms. Ludmila Azo, Country Manager for Rwanda at the International Trade Centre (the technical lead agency of the ADO-CBT Joint Programme) emphasized that “the next phase of the Joint Programme will focus on scaling implementation and strengthening partnerships to ensure that digital solutions translate into tangible economic opportunities for small-scale cross-border traders.”With Rwanda accelerating the implementation of NST2, the ADO-CBT Joint Programme is expected to play a catalytic role in fostering a modern, inclusive trade ecosystem—one that empowers small businesses, enhances competitiveness, and drives sustainable economic growth.