Rwanda has been designated as the host country for the upcoming 43rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB), scheduled in Kigali from June 11th to 13th, 2024.

This announcement follows Rwanda’s nomination as the next host country during Shelter Afrique Development Bank’s 42nd AGM in Abuja, Nigeria.

The formalization of Rwanda’s hosting role was solidified through the signing of a host country agreement between the Government of Rwanda, represented by Minister of Infrastructure Dr Jimmy Gasore, and Shelter Afrique Development Bank, represented by Managing Director Thierno Habib Hann, in Kigali this past March.

Minister of State witnessed the signing ceremony at the Infrastructure Ministry Eng. Patricie Uwase and Director General of the Housing Authority Mr. Alphonse Rukaburandekwe, alongside senior government officials.

The three-day event is set to encompass an Annual Symposium, a Ministerial Roundtable, the 43rd Annual General Meeting, and various interconnected business activities aimed at advancing discussions on housing finance and urban development across the continent.

Mr. Hann expressed gratitude to the Rwandan government for its commitment to hosting the AGM and emphasized the significance of this year’s meeting in furthering Shelter Afrique Development Bank’s transformative agenda in housing finance and urban development.

“This Year’s AGM will serve as an ushering step in solidifying Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) transformation and continued elevation of housing finance and urban development across the continent. We are pleased with the emphasis the Government of Rwanda has placed on the provision of affordable housing and we believe that by hosting our 43^rd AGM Rwanda will be able to take the lead on shaping the narrative around affordable housing beyond Rwanda,” Mr. Hann added.

The AGM is expected to draw participation from housing and finance ministers representing 44 member countries, as well as stakeholders from the public and private sectors involved in the housing sector. In line with the host country agreement, the Government of Rwanda is tasked with ensuring effective organization and the success of the meetings, including contributing to physical planning efforts.

Dr. Gasore lauded Shelter Afrique for selecting Rwanda as the host country, underscoring the government’s appreciation for ShafDB’s investments in the country. He expressed optimism for the continued partnership and progress of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, both within Rwanda and beyond its borders.