Local entrepreneurs and investors in the ICT sector have partnered to form a wholesale distribution outlet of gadgets and electronics manufactured in the country by Positivo BGH. Constituting 15 entrepreneurs, Africa Smart Investment Distributions (ASI-D) will be involved in the distribution of devices produced by the Latin American firm with a presence in Rwanda. The initiative is a commendable step towards promoting a culture of embracing locally made goods to spur national development, especially in the Information Communication Technology (ICTs) sector. However, this initiative should not stop at the sale of electronic gadgets but should spread to other businesses dealing in locally manufactured goods. While many people give the excuse of quality as the reason why they shun local products in favour of those manufactured abroad, this should not be the case for Rwanda. The country has strict quality controls enforced by Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) to ensure that products produced in the country meet international standards. There is no reason for consumers to worry about the quality of products made in Rwanda. However, a strategy to enhance consumption of made in Rwanda goods should be put in place to inculcate a culture of consuming homemade goods. It is not enough to manufacture locally made goods, without a deliberate campaign to ensure that they win the confidence of the local consumers. The concerned stakeholders should carry out regular campaigns including a regular made in Rwanda trade show where the public can be sensitized on the different local products and what supporting the local industries means in terms of achieving the country’s national development goals. As consumers, let us support the local industries to spur growth and eventually the dream of becoming a middle income country will be realized sooner than later.
