Rwanda has won three quality awards from the East African Community (EAC) in recognition of its institutions and industries' commitment to excellence. The awards were presented during a ceremony on November 2, 2023, attended by representatives from Kenya, Burundi, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania. The awards aim to promote and recognize businesses, industries, and service providers that demonstrate excellence in quality management.
Three Rwandan institutions and industries received the awards, including the Rwanda Meteorology Agency, SteelRwa Industries Ltd, and Santech, a technology company. The Rwanda Meteorology Agency won second place in the category of best service of the year in the public sector, while SteelRwa Industries Ltd won second place in the category of large company of the year. Santech won first place in the category of service of the year in the private sector.
The EAC Regional Quality Awards have nine categories, with the top three positions awarded in each category. Rwanda was represented by eight institutions and industries, while Kenya had six, Burundi had four, Somalia had nine, South Sudan had five, and Tanzania had nine. Although no Rwandan institution or industry won first place, their wins in other categories demonstrate their commitment to quality and competitiveness.
Shema Pacific, founder of Santech, expressed his satisfaction with the award, saying it gives them confidence and motivation to strive for excellence. He mentioned that their technology, e-visitors, is used by 47 institutions in Rwanda and abroad to facilitate document processing. Pacific emphasized that this award will encourage them to work harder and aim for top positions in the future.
Tuyishimire Chantal, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, congratulated the winners, saying that although no Rwandan institution or industry won first place, their wins in other categories are an opportunity to build on their strengths. She emphasized that quality is a crucial aspect that Rwanda should prioritize to compete effectively in the region.
Annette Ssemuwemba Mutaawe, EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of trade, noted that the competition includes categories for small and medium-sized enterprises, demonstrating that size is not a barrier to excellence. She emphasized that this encourages institutions and industries to improve their quality, build their reputation, and compete effectively.
The EAC Regional Quality Awards were introduced in 2023, with the first ceremony taking place in 2024. In 2024, Rwanda participated with four institutions and industries, winning second places in various categories. In 2025, Rwanda won first place in the category of services provided by large institutions, awarded to Zipline.
Key points
- Rwanda's institutions and industries have won three quality awards from the East African Community.
- The awards recognize excellence in quality management and promote competitiveness in the region.
- Rwanda's wins demonstrate its commitment to quality and competitiveness, with institutions and industries building on their strengths to strive for excellence.
