RWANDA: 2009 BUSINESS FACILITATION INCENTIVE FUND

UNCLAS KIGALI 000876 SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR EEB/CBA - DENNIS WINSTEAD E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ECON EFIN EINV ETRD EAID RW SUBJECT: RWANDA: 2009 BUSINESS FACILITATION INCENTIVE FUND (BFIF) PROPOSAL REF: STATE 128559 ¶1. (U) Embassy Kigali submits the following two projects for FY09 Business Facilitation Incentive Funds (BFIF). ¶2. (U) Project 1: Initiating information linkages and collaboration between the Rwandan Small Business Support Center and Commercial News/Think Global Incorporated. -- Justification: The Rwandan Small Business Support Center (SBSC) is supported by the Rwandan Ministry of Commerce and by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). It serves as the principal point of contact and resource center for Rwandan small and medium enterprises seeking international partners and/or new products and technology to introduce to Rwanda. Think Global publishes Commercial News USA with an aim to promote American export products, and provide information on trade shows and American companies interested in expanding international partnerships. Post would like to explore ways to initiate direct contact and information linkages between SBSC and the US Commercial News/Think Global that would enhance delivery of information about U.S. companies and products to potential Rwandan partners. -- Planning milestones: a) identification and tasking of action officers in SBSC and Commercial News USA; b) identification of mechanisms to enhance information and communication exchange; c) travel by SBSC officers to meet with Commercial News USA/Think Global Incorporated in August 2009 to establish personal contact and explore implementation of enhanced information and communication exchange. -- Performance Metrics: Expanded communication between Rwandan and American companies seeking to work together to introduce American products and technologies to Rwanda. New exports of American products and services to Rwanda. -- Estimated costs: USD 8-10,000 for transportation, lodging, meals and incidentals for Rwandan SBSC team visiting U.S. ¶3. (U) Project 2: U.S. Pavilion at the Kigali International Trade Show. -- Justification: The Kigali International Trade show held in August/September showcases Rwandan and international businesses engaged in Rwanda or seeking to enter the market. In 2008, the show attracted over 100,000 visitors. A U.S. pavilion would provide an opportunity for American companies operating in East Africa, or interested in selling to the East African Community (EAC) market, to promote their products or services and establish new business contacts. A U.S. pavilion would additionally demonstrate USG confidence in the region and support for East African economic integration. -- Performance metrics: Showcase American products and services to the EAC buyers. Initiate new business contacts. Expand American exports to the region. Demonstrate support for EAC economic integration. -- Estimated costs: USD 5,000 including a 9 square meter booth, decorations, internet, staff support and incidentals. ¶4. (U) Point of contact: Alex Sokoloff, Economic and Commercial Officer. sokoloffaw@state.gov SYMINGTON