Rwanda's Startup Ecosystem Attracts German Investment Despite Political Tensions

A German tech company is doubling down on its investments in Rwanda’s growing ICT sector, signaling strong confidence in the country’s potential, even amid political tensions in Europe.

TestSolutions GmbH, a global software testing firm, has been operating in Rwanda through its subsidiary, TestSolutions Rwanda (TSR), for over two years with a focus on training young Rwandan software testers and exporting their skills to the European market.

Christian Knoop, Managing Director of TestSolutions GmbH, shared that the delegation received positive feedback about Rwanda, saying, "The feedback we got from the delegation is overwhelming. What they are saying is not only how open, safe, and clean Rwanda is, but also how everybody is committed to rebuilding the country for a wealthy life and how the youth are eager to learn.”

TestSolutions has invested over 100,000 euros in Rwanda and plans to increase its investment and expand its workforce. However, the company raised concerns about the current visa process for Rwandans traveling to Schengen countries.

Knoop stated, “It is clear that the situation will not last long, requiring us to travel to Kenya to obtain a visa from Belgians while we have our embassy here. We are hoping for a smart solution in the next weeks.” He warned that unresolved visa issues could hinder business operations, as the company is in discussions with Europe's largest airline group to test software in Rwanda.

Rwanda's rapidly developing ICT sector, driven by initiatives like the 1 Million Rwandan Coders program, is attracting global interest. Knoop emphasized the talent pool in the country, stating, “There is so much great talent here in Rwanda that are basically our force for success.”