Rwanda is seeking to attract hundreds of millions of dollars in private investment through a partnership with Raffles Family Office, a wealth management firm based in Hong Kong and Singapore, targeting projects in aviation, tourism, real estate and infrastructure.
The agreement with the Rwanda Development Board, announced Oct. 22, 2026, aims to connect investment opportunities identified by the government with wealthy individuals and international investors across Asia, Africa and other markets.
Raffles Family Office plans to use its international network to promote projects aligned with Rwanda’s development priorities. The proposed investment pipeline includes Kigali International Airport in Bugesera, hotels, tourism facilities, entertainment, Airport City and other infrastructure, including developments linked to Rwanda’s planned Formula 1 African Grand Prix.
The ambition to attract hundreds of millions of dollars over the coming years is a target, not confirmation that the funds have already been committed.
The partnership comes as Rwanda prepares for the proposed Grand Prix, which is expected to take place in the early 2030s following the construction of a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera. Formula 1 announced a 10-year agreement with Rwanda on Oct. 13, 2026, although the inaugural race date has not been announced.
The government hopes the event will generate opportunities beyond motorsport, including demand for accommodation, air transport, tourism, entertainment and commercial property.
Rwanda Development Board Chief Executive Jean-Guy Afrika said private-sector participation would be essential to realizing the country’s investment ambitions.
“Formula 1 is a catalyst for a broader investment vision in Rwanda,” Afrika said, pointing to opportunities across aviation, hospitality, tourism, entertainment, real estate and related services.
He said the partnership was expected to create business opportunities, support job creation and increase economic activity during and after the event.
Raffles Family Office Chief Executive Chi Man Kwan said the agreement would provide a framework for connecting the firm’s clients with opportunities in sectors Rwanda has prioritized for development. He also highlighted the potential for international investment to support long-term economic activity in Africa.
The firm opened an office in Kigali in early 2026 as part of its expansion into the continent. It has since held discussions with prospective investors and prepared visits for those interested in exploring opportunities in Rwanda.
In September 2026, Raffles Family Office appointed Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye to a role focused on emerging markets and business development. He previously served as a minister of state in the Ministry of Infrastructure and as Rwanda’s ambassador to Singapore.
The partnership’s impact will depend on whether investor interest translates into financing and completed projects. For Rwanda, the immediate priorities include mobilizing capital, developing infrastructure and expanding business opportunities, with the resulting economic benefits dependent on the delivery and viability of individual investments.
