The signing ceremony took place at UNIDO Headquarters in Vienna between UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller and Ambassador Urujeni Bakuramutsa, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to UNIDO. The event was also attended by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł, Head of Mission of Poland to UNIDO, and senior representatives from Poland’s Ministry of Economic Development and Technology.

Director General Müller hailed the partnership as a milestone for practical international cooperation.

“Today’s signing is more than just a document it marks the beginning of a triangular partnership: Poland as an emerging donor, UNIDO with its technical expertise, and Rwanda on its path toward resilient, sustainable development. Together, we will deliver practical solutions that improve lives and build a safer, more sustainable future,” he said.

The new project, titled “Strengthening Rwanda’s Capacities to Respond to Industrial and Natural Hazards,” will be implemented by UNIDO in collaboration with the Fire and Rescue Brigade of the Rwanda National Police.

It will include a comprehensive feasibility study, a risk assessment, and a national roadmap to enhance Rwanda’s firefighting and emergency response systems. A second phase is foreseen to support capacity-building and provide specialized firefighting equipment.

Ambassador Urujeni Bakuramutsa emphasized that the initiative aligns with Rwanda’s long-term development goals.

“This project embodies the principles of international cooperation that define effective multilateralism. It directly contributes to the implementation of our Second National Strategy for Transformation and Vision 2050, particularly in building a modern, competitive, and green industrial economy,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Government of Poland, Ambassador Szczygieł reaffirmed Poland’s commitment to development cooperation with African countries.

“Poland attaches great importance to development cooperation with Africa, and this project is a prime example. Alongside our support for Ukraine and earlier UNIDO projects in Tajikistan, Moldova, and Georgia, we are proud to bring our experience and know-how to Rwanda,” he noted.

The partnership highlights Rwanda’s growing leadership in resilience and sustainable industrialization while reinforcing UNIDO’s mission to promote safe, secure, and sustainable industrial development worldwide. It also signals Poland’s expanding role as a reliable development partner in advancing global cooperation for sustainable growth.