A delegation of Swedish investors and experts arrived in Kigali today to explore opportunities in Rwanda’s aviation sector. The group, led by Amb. Inger Ultvedt of the Swedish foreign affairs ministry, is part of a regional trade delegation to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda that was jointly organised by Business Sweden and the embassies of Sweden in Nairobi, Kigali and Kampala.

"This trade delegation is a hands-on expression of Sweden’s wish to further intensify and broaden our bilateral collaboration and trade in the region,” said Amb. Ultvedt in the statement.

Today, representatives from eight Swedish companies will meet their Rwandan counterparts at Lemigo hotel to discuss how modern aviation technology can contribute to sustainability, cost reduction and safety at airports. They will also share knowledge, network and discuss business opportunities.

The seminar will also focus on Rwanda’s plans of constructing Bugesera International Airport.

"We are confident that the companies in the delegation will provide solutions that can benefit plans to build the new Bugesera International Airport,” said Maria Hakansson, the Swedish chargé d’affaires in Rwanda.

The group is made up of representatives from ACR Aviation Capacity Resources, Assa Abloy, Eltel Networks, Gunnebo, Safegate Group, Scania East Africa, Auto Sueco (Volvo) and the EKN – The Swedish Export Credit Guarantee Board.

Hakansson said the delegation will also meet with the State Minister for Transport, as well as officials from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, RwandAir and Rwanda Development Board.

The two-day visit is seen as a move aimed at strengthening trade and bilateral relations between Sweden and Rwanda.

The visit takes place against a background of strong economic development in East Africa and a growing interest from Swedish industry. Last week, a Swedish healthcare delegation visited Rwanda.