BRAZZAVILLE - After excelling at the just-concluded Congo-Brazzaville trade fair, Rwanda now aims to penetrate other West African countries to seek markets for local products.

This was announced by Trade and Industry Minister, Francois Kanimba, while addressing reporters on the outcome of the Congo-Brazzaville trade fair.

According to Kanimba, countries in West Africa depend on mining and hence lack agricultural products, adding that it is a good opportunity for Rwandans to seek out markets for their produce.

"It was the first mission we had in Brazzaville and we succeeded because Congolese appreciated our products. We have now set our target to other countries like Gabon to export our agricultural products,” Kanimba said.

The minister added that his counterpart in Congo requested him to host a Congolese business delegation to be trained how to prepare international trade fairs.

Kanimba explained that he would engage stakeholders to ensure that trade with Congo is established and expanded.

The three-day trade fair that took place from 18 to 21 June in the Congolese capital, Brazzaville, attracted over 40 Rwandan firms.

Christine Murebwayire, a Rwandan who participated in the event, pointed out that it was important for Rwanda to venture into the Congolese market before other regional competitors do.

"I took over 80 wine and juice bottles and I sold them within 30 minutes; even my colleagues who were exhibiting their products had their products bought immediately,” she said.

Some of the products that attracted the Congolese include meat, wine, juice and other supplies.

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