On November 2, 2026, Rwandan President Paul Kagame spoke at the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 28) in St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment that supports the growth of small businesses. According to Kagame, when a business is feasible and profitable, other challenges can be easily overcome. He stressed that Commonwealth countries should focus on integrating their markets to enable businesses to access a larger customer base.
President Kagame highlighted the need for governments to implement policies that support entrepreneurship and facilitate business operations. He noted that this can be achieved through good governance, strong institutions, and collaboration between the public and private sectors. By doing so, small businesses can expand and become more competitive in the market. Kagame's remarks were echoed by other leaders, including Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Samoan Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioʻo.
The CHOGM 28 meeting, which took place from November 1 to 4, 2026, brought together leaders from 30 countries and representatives from 56 Commonwealth member states. The meeting aimed to explore ways to leverage the organization's collective potential to drive economic growth and build a better future for its citizens. President Kagame's address focused on the importance of creating a favorable business environment that allows small businesses to thrive.
Kagame emphasized that small businesses can contribute significantly to economic growth if given the right support. He noted that by integrating their markets, Commonwealth countries can create a larger market for businesses to operate in, enabling them to access a broader customer base and increase their competitiveness. This, in turn, can lead to economic growth and job creation.
The Rwandan President also highlighted the need for governments to provide a supportive environment for businesses to grow. This includes implementing policies that facilitate entrepreneurship, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and providing access to finance and other resources. By doing so, governments can help small businesses overcome the challenges they face and achieve their full potential.
The CHOGM 28 meeting provided a platform for leaders to share best practices and discuss ways to address common challenges. President Kagame's remarks were well-received by the audience, and his emphasis on the importance of supporting small businesses resonated with many leaders. The meeting concluded with a commitment to work together to promote economic growth and development in Commonwealth countries.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting is a biennial event that brings together leaders from member states to discuss issues of common interest. The meeting provides a platform for leaders to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and identify opportunities for collaboration. This year's meeting focused on promoting economic growth and building a better future for Commonwealth citizens.
Key points
- President Kagame urges Commonwealth countries to integrate their markets to support the growth of small businesses.
- He emphasizes the need for governments to implement policies that support entrepreneurship and facilitate business operations.
- The CHOGM 28 meeting brings together leaders from 30 countries and representatives from 56 Commonwealth member states to discuss ways to drive economic growth and build a better future.
