Participants of a job fair held by Chinese companies in Kigali, Rwanda, on 9 September

In a remarkable display of commitment to fostering educational ties and economic collaboration, Chinese investors in Rwanda have taken a significant step towards offering job opportunities to Rwandan graduates from Chinese universities. This initiative has not only garnered praise from Rwandan officials but also highlighted the strong partnership between the two nations. 

Rwandan officials, particularly those from the Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA), expressed their appreciation for China’s multifaceted approach to supporting youth. While many countries around the world offer scholarships to international students, China is going a step further by creating job opportunities for the Rwandans studying in China. 

“We have many countries in the world that are our partners in education or where our students can go to study, but there is no other country that does what China is doing,” said Patrick Kananga, chief labour and decent work administrator at MIFOTRA, underlining the unique nature of China’s commitment to African youth. 

Job fair 

At a job fair held in Kigali on 9 September, over 300 Rwandans who had graduated from Chinese universities were given the opportunity to explore job prospects at 30 Chinese companies operating in Rwanda.  

China is the only country organising such a job fair in Rwanda, ChinAfrica learnt at the fair.  

This event, organised by the Chinese Embassy and the Rwanda China Alumni Organisation (RCAO), aimed to connect qualified graduates with potential employers covering a wide array of sectors including telecommunications, agriculture and manufacturing. 

The job fair had been initiated in 2019, but was interrupted due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. However, in 2023, it was successfully revived, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of both nations to offering career opportunities for Rwandan talent. 

Wang Xuekun, Chinese ambassador to Rwanda, stressed the vital role the fair plays in shaping the future of Rwandan talents and contributing to the nation’s economic development.  

He noted that an increasing number of Chinese companies are exploring opportunities in Rwanda, encompassing traditional sectors like infrastructure, manufacturing and transportation, as well as emerging ones such as e-commerce, vocational training and communications. 

“I believe the participation of Chinese companies has become part and parcel of Rwanda’s journey to transformation and development,” Wang noted, highlighting the unique perspective these graduates bring to both countries, having been exposed to the cultures of Rwanda and China. 

Kananga commended the Chinese companies and government for their unwavering support. He praised their continued effort in ensuring that these students secure jobs upon completing their studies. 

Theoneste Higaniro, president of the RCAO, highlighted the profound friendship and deepening economic ties between Rwanda and China. The presence of Chinese companies at the job fair was seen as a testament to the commitment of both nations to prosper together through collaboration. 

The job fair served as a platform for fruitful discussions between Chinese companies and Rwandan graduates. In the coming days, it is expected that many graduates will receive offers of employment from these companies, marking a significant step forward in strengthening the partnership between China and Rwanda. 

Educational journey  

At the job fair, several Rwandan graduates who had pursued their education in China shared their experiences and optimism about the opportunities presented by Chinese investors in Rwanda. 

Mukamana Immaculée, a recent graduate from a Chinese university, expressed her gratitude for the chance to connect with potential employers at the job fair. She said, “Studying in China was a life-changing experience, and I am thrilled to see that Chinese companies in Rwanda are interested in hiring graduates like me. This initiative is truly exceptional.” 

Another graduate, Nzabonimana Jean-Paul, talked about the importance of studying in China, “I learned not only valuable academic knowledge but also gained insights into Chinese culture and business practices during my time in China. Now, I’m excited about the prospect of contributing to both my homeland and the growing collaboration between Rwanda and China.” 

Uwamariya Josiane, who studied telecommunications engineering in China, noted the significance of the job fair in promoting cross-cultural understanding. She said, “The interactions at the job fair were enriching. It’s not just about finding a job; it’s about building bridges between the two nations and fostering mutual growth.” 

These testimonies underscore the mutual benefit of the initiative - Rwandan graduates receiving job opportunities and Chinese companies employing talented staff with a deep understanding of both nations. 

Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Wang Xuekun (centre) attends a job fair held by Chinese companies in Kigali, Rwanda, on 9 September 

Broader impact 

Beyond individual success stories, the collaboration between Chinese investors and Rwandan graduates carries far-reaching implications for the economic development of Rwanda. By offering job opportunities to graduates, China is not only fulfilling its commitment to education but also actively contributing to the growth of Rwanda’s workforce. 

This collaborative effort is particularly significant in the context of Rwanda’s broader economic aspirations. The nation has been steadily moving towards a knowledge-based economy, with a focus on technology, innovation and human capital development. The involvement of Chinese companies in sectors such as telecommunications, agriculture, and manufacturing is aligned with Rwanda’s vision for economic transformation. 

Moreover, the job fair serves as a tangible demonstration of the friendship between Rwanda and China. The deepening economic ties between the two nations are expected to yield positive outcomes not only in terms of employment but also in enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. 

As the Chinese companies move forward with hiring graduates, it is believed that the job fair will have a ripple effect, benefitting both individual jobseekers and the economy of Rwanda. This partnership exemplifies the power of international collaboration in advancing education and fostering economic growth. 

The Chinese ambassador further reminded the audience that the past years saw a steady and robust growth of China-Rwanda relations, with achievements across a wide range of sectors, especially in the economic and business field. 

He said that the bilateral relations have made great advancement. China is Rwanda’s top investor and trading partner. Last year, China-Rwanda bilateral trade reached $477 million, an increase of 31.2 percent. Based on the Rwandan Development Bank statistics, the total investment from China last year hit $182 million, injecting sound momentum into Rwanda’s economy.