Following this, she joined other African women entrepreneurs at the Élysée Palace for a special celebration of International Women’s Day, where she was invited to honor the role of women in business and development.

This event was dedicated to women’s entrepreneurship in Africa, with a focus on agribusiness and tech (healthtech, fintech), highlighting exceptional women entrepreneurs who have developed their businesses and contributed to relations between Africa and France.

The gathering saw the presence of key international leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting female entrepreneurship across Africa.

He spoke passionately about the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative, led by the African Development Bank, which has already distributed over €1.2 billion to more than 24,000 women entrepreneurs across 44 African countries.

The initiative aims to close the financing gap that holds back so many female entrepreneurs, giving them the financial support necessary to scale their businesses.

In an interview with IGIHE, Umutoni shared her thoughts on the dynamic and rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing the creativity and resilience of African entrepreneurs.

She said, "What struck me was the creativity and resilience of entrepreneurs in the face of the challenges of a rapidly changing sector, where opportunities and challenges go hand in hand. Africa has immense potential to harness, and these exchanges further reinforce my belief that agribusiness is a vital lever for development."

During the event, roundtable discussions provided a platform for entrepreneurs to exchange experiences and discuss the challenges they face, particularly regarding access to financing and the pivotal role of mentorship in their growth.

These conversations were crucial in shaping the future of female entrepreneurship in Africa, ensuring that women have the resources and networks they need to thrive.

The event concluded with an inspiring speech by Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, Delegate Minister in charge of Francophonie and International Partnerships, under the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, who reaffirmed France’s commitment to feminist diplomacy on the African continent.

She highlighted the significant role that women entrepreneurs play in shaping the future of Africa’s economy and development.

This gathering was a true celebration of the transformative power of women in business, highlighting their impact on economic growth in Africa.

Despite the challenges, the future is bright for women entrepreneurs like Ritha Umutoni, who are determined to turn their ideas into reality and drive meaningful change across the continent.

Umutoni with the Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Mr. Thani Mohamed-Soilihi.

A souvenir photo of President Emmanuel Macron and Ritha Umutoni, founder and CEO of RIXU Rwanda Coffee.

Souvenir photo of Ritha Umutoni, founder and CEO of RIXU Rwanda Coffee, at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the President of the French Republic.

French President Emmanuel Macron, reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting female entrepreneurship across Africa.

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