Posted on February, 10, 2025 at 10:19 am
“We need to strengthen our own networks and create more opportunities for young entrepreneurs back home”
A delegation from Liberia has arrived in Rwanda to explore innovative strategies for entrepreneurship and job creation, as part of the Prospects IV Project led by Mercy Corps Liberia in partnership with iCampus Liberia and SMART Liberia.
The initiative aims to study Rwanda’s thriving business ecosystem, particularly how informal norms and entrepreneurial networks contribute to economic development. The team, comprising professionals from various sectors, seeks to apply lessons learned in Kigali to enhance Liberia’s business landscape.
After a long journey that included a seven-hour flight from Monrovia to Addis Ababa, a three-hour layover, and a final two-hour flight to Kigali, the team arrived in Rwanda’s capital, widely recognized as one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities.
Their first stop was Bridge2Rwanda Farms, a model agricultural enterprise known for its sustainable farming techniques and commitment to economic empowerment. The delegation was warmly received by Fabrice, the farm’s manager, who provided in-depth insights into the farm’s operations.
During the visit, Fabrice emphasized the importance of conservation agriculture, a farming approach that promotes soil health, water conservation, and long-term sustainability.
“At Bridge2Rwanda Farms, we focus on conservation agriculture because it ensures long-term productivity while protecting the environment,” Fabrice explained. “By improving soil fertility and reducing water usage, farmers can increase yields without harming the land.”
He further highlighted how mentorship and education play a vital role in empowering young entrepreneurs in Rwanda’s agricultural sector.
“We believe in training the next generation of farmers,” he said. “Innovation, combined with traditional knowledge, creates a strong foundation for sustainable business.”
The visit provided an opportunity for the Liberian delegation to draw parallels between Rwanda’s agricultural and entrepreneurial successes and the challenges Liberia faces in fostering job creation.
Luther Jeke, CEO of iCampus Liberia, underscored the importance of learning from Rwanda’s approach.
“Rwanda has created a strong ecosystem where informal networks, mentorship, and access to capital support entrepreneurship. These are lessons we can adapt to Liberia,” Jeke said. “We need to strengthen our own networks and create more opportunities for young entrepreneurs back home.”
Similarly, a representative from SMART Liberia noted the significance of community involvement in Rwanda’s economic development.
“One key takeaway is how local communities actively participate in business growth,” they said. “The informal sector is well-structured, and there’s a culture of collaboration that we must encourage in Liberia.”
Beyond agriculture, the team is set to explore other sectors, including technology, finance, and small business development, to gain a broader understanding of how Rwanda fosters entrepreneurship.
To conclude the day’s activities, the delegation enjoyed a team dinner at Issa Coffee, a well-known restaurant in downtown Kigali. Over plates of traditional Rwandan cuisine, they reflected on the day’s learnings and discussed strategies for integrating these insights into Liberia’s economic framework.
The delegation will continue its engagements in the coming days, meeting with business leaders, policymakers, and young entrepreneurs to deepen their understanding of Rwanda’s economic transformation.
As Mercy Corps Liberia and its partners push forward with the Prospects IV Project, the goal remains clear: to create a thriving business environment in Liberia by leveraging the successes and best practices observed in Rwanda.
Source: Daily Observer