In an effort to boost the economy and build the country’s reputation in international markets, the Rwandan government has introduced significant reforms aimed at streamlining and accelerating the delivery of quality assurance services. These changes, implemented in early 2025, aim to enhance industrial development and facilitate business operations by making processes faster, more efficient, and cost-effective.
Previously, obtaining quality assurance certifications was a complex process involving multiple institutions, which created significant barriers for businesses and industries. This not only delayed critical operations but also imposed high costs, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which struggled with lengthy procedures and financial strain.
The new reforms are designed to simplify the process, reduce the costs associated with certifications, and improve the operational efficiency of the agencies responsible for quality assurance services. These changes will allow industries to operate more smoothly and help businesses access international markets faster without incurring excessive costs.
A good example is Zamura Feeds, a company producing animal feed, where the CEO, Richard Ndekezi, expressed his appreciation for the reforms. He highlighted that these changes would significantly reduce the cost of obtaining quality assurance certificates and speed up the company’s operations.
John Ndekezi explained that before these reforms, his company had to pay close to 6 million Rwandan Francs to obtain certifications for nine different products. However, with the new pricing structure, this cost will be reduced to a maximum of 900,000 Rwandan Francs. This cost will now be paid directly to the RSB (Rwanda Standards Bureau) account.
He said: “Streamlining and speeding up the delivery of quality assurance services is a very good decision, and we thank the government. In the past, we had to pay nearly 6 million Rwandan Francs to get certifications for our 9 products, but now, with the new prices, it will not exceed 900,000 Rwandan Francs.”
Richard continued by pointing out that, previously, they were required to seek services from multiple agencies, which caused delays and added unnecessary costs. Now, with the new system, the necessary certifications will be handled in a more integrated and faster manner, which will save time and money for businesses.
He added: “Additionally, seeking services from multiple agencies with similar requirements often delayed our operations and increased costs. Now, the process will be faster as the requirements are unified and services are streamlined, which we are very happy about.”
Gatera Emmanuel, Head of the Standards and Regulations Department at the Rwanda Standards Bureau (RSB), also praised these changes, saying that “the government is committed to continuing to support the development of industries producing animal feed by streamlining quality assurance services, as they are key partners in increasing livestock production.” He further added that “streamlining and speeding up services is in line with the national agenda to accelerate industrial development and self-reliance.”
These reforms are part of the broader government plan to increase industrial output and promote economic growth. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente emphasized that the government’s efforts will enable the country to make significant strides in building a stronger economy, including increasing export volumes and boosting local industries.
These changes will help Rwanda reduce costs, increase exports, and promote the growth of domestic industries, all aimed at building a sustainable and rapidly growing economy. The streamlined quality assurance services will allow industries and businesses to accelerate their operations, maximize opportunities in various sectors, including textiles, food, and manufacturing, and foster innovation within industries.
