The Private Sector Federation (PSF) has confirmed plans to relocate the Rwanda International Trade Fair (RITF) to a new permanent site in Gahanga, citing space constraints and logistical challenges at the current Gikondo Expo Grounds.
Speaking during a press briefing this week, PSF Acting Managing Director John Bosco Kalisa said the growing size and popularity of the annual Expo have made the move necessary.
“We are working with Kigali City and the Ministry of Trade and Industry to establish a permanent exhibition site in Gahanga,” Kalisa said. “The current site in Gikondo can no longer accommodate the scale of the event.”
Now in its 26th edition, the RITF has recorded a record number of 367 exhibitors, including 97 international companies from 19 countries, and is expected to attract more than 500,000 visitors by the time it closes on August 11.
Themed “Championing Economic Resilience through a Dynamic Private Sector,” this year’s event has highlighted Rwanda’s growing business potential but also exposed the limitations of the Gikondo grounds, which were originally designed for livestock trade.
“The space is too small, parking is difficult, and movement within the venue is a challenge,” said Clarisse Uwera, a local exhibitor. “It affects both exhibitors and visitors.”
Kalisa noted that the new site in Gahanga, located in Kicukiro District, will offer more space and modern facilities. Plans under consideration include dedicated pavilions, parking areas, green spaces, and conference halls, making it suitable for year-round exhibitions and trade events.
While the land in Gahanga has already been secured for this purpose, PSF did not disclose details of the purchase, including the cost or size of the plot.
Although no official timeline was given for the relocation, feasibility studies and design plans are currently underway.
The RITF is one of the region’s largest trade events and a major platform for local and international businesses to showcase products and services, build networks, and access the Rwandan market.
