ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), a developer and operator of world-class industrial ecosystems across Africa, has announced the signing of a framework agreement for the development of an industrial zone in Bugesera District in collaboration with the Rwandan government.
This agreement, which is in line with ARISE IIP’s ambition to unlock Africa’s industrial potential, will assist the Rwandan government in advancing the country’s industrialization agenda.
The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) will seek to promote and attract multi-sectoral industrial and commercial investments in the country, as well as to develop local raw material manufacturing into high-value products. The ZES is expected to be fully operational in three years, beginning in 2022, with construction taking place in three phases spanning 330 hectares. The zone will be centered on the localization of timber, packaging, agro-processing, construction materials, logistics, and other processing industries.
The zone will be strategically located only 10 kilometers from the new international airport in Bugesera district, which is expected to be the largest airport in the country. Furthermore, the Bugesera district is 50 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital and a key economic and cultural hub in the region.
ARISE IIP Founder and CEO Gagan Gupta commented: “We are honored to be able to collaborate with the Rwandan government in the development of the Bugesera Special Economic Zone. We intend to support the Rwandan government’s efforts to develop the country with our experience as developers and operators of industrial ecosystems across Africa.”
According to Clare Akamanzi, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), “We are excited to collaborate with ARISE IIP to create and operate a Special Economic Zone in Bugesera District, which will serve as a growing trade and investment hub.” Strategic investments like these not only encourage more investment and exports in the country but also job creation as we strive to become a middle-income economy. We look forward to collaborating with ARISE IIP to ensure that the Bugesera SEZ’s objectives are met. “
ARISE IIP has seen remarkable growth in Africa over the last few years, with 12 integrated industrial zones now accelerating the continent’s industrialization. For example, in Gabon, ARISE IIP manages the Gabon Special Economic Zone (GSEZ), which has created 16,000 jobs, attracted 120 investors, and enabled Gabon to transition from a log exporter to the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of veneer, as well as the first in Africa.
ARISE IIP’s primary drive across the continent has always been the creation of industrial ecosystems committed to generating high local added value while also ensuring long-term growth.
