DP World signs groundbreaking e-commerce deal with Rwanda

Agreement will boost global trading prospects of East African country

Rwanda will become DP World’s initial hub for expanding e-commerce across East Africa and beyond. WAM

DP World has signed an agreement with the Rwanda Development Board to expand its e-commerce operations across East Africa and beyond.

The logistics firm will launch its new global e-commerce platform, DuBuy.com, in Rwanda early next year.

The deal will make it easier for Rwandan businesses to increase their international trade and to form partnerships with countries such as the UAE.

Coffee, tea and horticulture are Rwanda's biggest exports, which will be bolstered by broader DP World services.

The company has already invested in world-class port and logistics facilities in Kigali, demonstrating its strong belief in the country's future.

"The government of Rwanda has made substantial investment in creating a suitable environment to derive e-commerce," said Clare Akamanzi, chief executive of the Rwanda Development Board.

"The signing of [the deal] with DP World today is a significant boost to our efforts to support the development of a digital economy working closely with the private sector."

Ms Akamanzi's optimism was shared by Mike Bhaskaran, chief operating officer of logistics and technology at DP World.

"We couldn’t be more excited to be launching DuBuy.com as a major e-commerce site in East Africa," Mr Bhaskaran said.

"The platform will initially enable Rwandan products to reach global markets and help enterprises from around the world to invest in Rwanda, before later expansion to further African markets."