Pontem Analytics in Rwanda
Pontem Analytics Rwanda Ltd.
Pontem Analytics Rwanda Ltd is fully registered and open for business in Kigali, Rwanda. It is indeed a remarkable milestone in Pontem Analytics’ commitment towards eradicating energy poverty, bridging the gap between data and discipline, and making global content local in Africa. Pontem Analytics Rwanda Ltd will be a launchpad for our growth in the continent of Africa.
Pontem Analytics Rwanda Ltd is located in the prestigious Kigali Heights, right next to the Kigali Convention Center, Radisson Blu hotel and the Kigali Alliance Business Centre, with the University of Kigali in eyesight view. Kigali Heights is home to several large organizations, such as Israel Embassy, Maersk, Mastercard Foundation, Galil Engineering, Bank of Kigali, I&M Bank and Commercial Bank of Africa, to mention a few.
Located on the 5th floor, Pontem Analytics Rwanda Ltd will share the complex with potential clients and collaborators and serve the entire continent of Africa.
Partnership with the local community
Since Pontem Analytics opened for business in Rwanda, it has been engaging the local community in spheres, such as education, charity and government.
Education: Pontem Analytics have engaged World Bank’s African Center of Excellence in Data Science, located in University of Rwanda, Kigali, to collaborate on bridging the gap between academia and industry and also, data and discipline. In a few weeks, Pontem Analytics will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the African Center of Excellence in Data Science, University of Rwanda.
Charity: investing in our local community is something we deem imperative and continue to look for ways to add value to the community we operate in. On the 2nd of November 2023, Pontem Analytics co-founder, Tommy Golczynski, and I visited the Evangelical Restoration Church on an official visit to pledge the provision of 1-year full scholarships to 13 children / youths (mainly orphans from impoverished backgrounds) to support the ministry’s efforts to put youths back to school. We were well received by the church leadership.
Government: Engaging with the government of the land is important to Pontem Analytics to better understand how we can be a responsible organization in the community, by enacting corporate social responsibility initiatives that support government efforts. The former Mayor of Kigali, and now Honorable Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths in Rwanda was engaged by Pontem Analytics o organize a discussion on how we can support ongoing youths’ initiatives and partner with the ministry to provide opportunities for the youths of Rwanda.
Last month, I wrote an article introducing Pontem Analytics in Africa and purpose behind that milestone expansion to the region. It was all about bettering human lives by advancing energy access and eradicating energy poverty. The purpose is not lost in the country of a thousand hills, where there is a gas to power initiative from an interesting reservoir. The focus of the country on providing energy and power access to its citizens is impressive, exploring all energy options. That “all-of-the-above energy” solution is in line with our vision in Africa.
So, why Rwanda?
As I wrote in my previous article, Pontem Analytics has strategically chosen Rwanda as its African headquarters. Rwanda's reputation as one of the safest and most investment-friendly environments in the region, coupled with its central location amidst East African energy hubs such as Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, makes it an ideal choice. Additionally, the extensive network of Rwanda's flagship airline, RwandAir, connecting to vital energy destinations within Africa (East, West, North and South Africa) and worldwide, further solidifies Rwanda's appeal. The country's strong commitment to sustainability, abundant diversification opportunities, and a well-trained workforce have significantly contributed to our decision. Rwanda isn't just a destination; it serves as a launchpad for our growth and success in the African market.
So, let’s dig deeper into Rwanda and its importance to Pontem Analytics.
Access to skilled human resources - World Bank’s Center of Excellence in Data Science in Rwanda!
World Bank has established a center of excellence in data science in Kigali, Rwanda in a bid to advance the development of the African continent and train resources at master’s and PhD level, in addition to offering short courses in the digital space. With hundreds of graduate students from the African Center of Excellence in Data Science (part of University of Rwanda) and many more currently studying, it was imperative for Pontem Analytics to locate its headquarters in close proximity to highly skilled individuals. The Center attracts the best from all parts of Africa and beyond and also students from various academic & professional backgrounds ranging from engineering, health, minerals to finance etc., providing a diverse population of professionals and students.
Pontem Analytics have engaged the African Center of Excellence in Data Science, University of Rwanda and we are now in the process of officially signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that allows for collaboration between both organizations. This collaboration underscores our dedication to nurturing talent and fostering innovation within our core sectors & disciplines and data analytics. We believe that by combining our industry expertise with the Centre of Excellence in Data Science, we can open up new opportunities for students and make meaningful contributions to our sectors: Energy, Minerals, Health, Performance, and Industry. Pontem Analytics will recruit graduates, offer internships to their students and collaborate on MSc/PhD research topics. There is excitement from both parties; we will announce officially once the MoU has been signed.
A local energy opportunity - Nature’s fizzy energy drink
Tommy’s article on Mystery on Lake Kivu is a lead on to this article. He provided some context on this. His article delves into the intriguing phenomena surrounding Lake Kivu, exploring the unique combination of natural elements that make it distinctive. It examines the presence of methane and carbon dioxide in the lake's depths, as well as the potential dangers associated with these gases. The article highlights how research and data analytics can play a crucial role in understanding and mitigating these risks and optimizing production, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the region.
Additionally, the article underscores the importance of Lake Kivu as a valuable energy resource. It discusses the utilization of methane from the lake for electricity generation and the significant potential it holds for addressing Rwanda's energy needs. Overall, the article provides insight into the complex relationship between Lake Kivu, energy production, and the imperative role of data analytics in managing this remarkable natural resource. If you haven’t read it, please do!
With little or no energy consultancies in Rwanda to partner with the operators, Pontem Analytics is in a good position to support the gas to power markets with engineering and data cum digital capabilities.
Central location in East Africa and proximity to Central & West Africa’s energy industry
Rwanda borders a number of countries, such as Uganda, Congo (DRC), Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya and in close proximity to Congo Brazzaville and West Africa, where considerable oil and gas activities are taking place. Rwanda is a small nation, but very influential and prominent in East Africa. With the new oil and gas developments in the region, Pontem Analytics is well positioned to support the region. It’s imperative to give some context about the East African energy challenges and opportunities vis-a-vis Rwanda’s importance.
In spite of its vast potential, the East African energy sector remains largely underdeveloped, with pervasive issues such as low modern energy access, meager per capita consumption, and a heavy reliance on biomass energy, which constitutes over 90% of the region's total energy consumption. Rural areas in East Africa experience less than 1% access to electricity, and wood fuel remains the primary energy source for traditional, rural, and economically disadvantaged urban households, as well as some small-scale industries. However, the modern economy heavily depends on petroleum and electricity. The rising costs of petroleum products, coupled with inadequate and inefficient power supply systems due to limitations in generation capacity and suboptimal transmission and distribution infrastructure, have led to an increased use of biomass in the commercial and industrial sectors.
Opportunities for Pontem Analytics to support the East African energy market from its strategic location in Rwanda, which borders many East African countries, are considerable. Pontem Analytics can offer expertise in optimizing energy generation, transmission, and distribution to enhance efficiency and reliability in the region's energy infrastructure. Additionally, by leveraging data analytics and industry insights, Pontem Analytics can help East African nations make informed decisions to diversify energy sources, reduce reliance on biomass, and promote sustainable, clean energy solutions. Collaboration with East African governments and energy stakeholders can pave the way for Pontem Analytics to contribute to the region's energy development, meeting both commercial and social energy needs.
Fly Pontem Fly - RwandAir
Rwanda’s flagship airline accesses most of the energy hubs in Africa, making the country a good base for a consultancy that offers energy services across Africa. RwandAir has earned its reputation as one of the leading airlines in Africa, distinguished by its commitment to excellence and exceptional service. With a well-deserved track record of providing top-tier aviation services, RwandAir stands out as a reliable choice for travelers across the continent and beyond. What sets RwandAir apart is its impressive accessibility to a wide array of African countries, facilitating seamless connections between major cities and underserved regions. By fostering extensive routes and expanding its network, RwandAir continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity across Africa, making it a preferred airline for both business and leisure travelers seeking convenience, reliability, and world-class hospitality in their journeys.
Enabling a business-friendly environment
Rwanda has rapidly emerged as a vibrant hub for international business, thanks to its exceptionally conducive business environment. The Rwandan government's dedication to creating an attractive ecosystem for both local and international companies is evident through various initiatives and reforms. Notably, Rwanda has consistently ranked among the top African countries in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index, showcasing its commitment to fostering a favorable environment for commerce. The country's strategic location in East Africa, coupled with its political stability and efficient regulatory framework, has garnered the attention of international corporations seeking to establish a presence in the region.
The Rwandan government actively supports companies through a range of incentives, which include tax breaks, investment protection, and streamlined bureaucratic processes. Their commitment to infrastructure development, especially in the areas of transportation and technology, further enhances Rwanda's appeal. In addition, initiatives like the Kigali Special Economic Zone and the Kigali Innovation City have provided platforms for international firms to flourish, particularly those in the technology and innovation sectors.
The sudden influx of international companies into Rwanda reflects the country's position as a beacon of opportunity and growth in Africa. The government's proactive stance on creating an environment conducive to investment has undoubtedly contributed to this influx, and it is poised to continue fostering a thriving business landscape that benefits both the nation and the global business community.
Diversification prospects
In my last article, I emphasized that Pontem Analytics is in the business of solving the world’s most complex and challenging problems, and those range from energy (energy insecurity & poverty), health, agriculture (food insecurity) to climate change. These areas are prominent in the public discourse in Rwanda.
Health: There is a revolution going on in the health sector in Rwanda, which provides an opportunity for Pontem Analytics to utilize its data and digital expertise to provide solutions specific to the health sector. The use of advance technology in Rwanda’s health sector has already begun, with drone deliveries of medicine to rural hospitals taking place outside on the capital city.
Agriculture (Food Insecurity): The imperative for expanding agricultural initiatives in Africa to combat hunger is undeniably pressing. With approximately 257 million people in Africa suffering from chronic undernourishment, according to the FAO, the continent remains disproportionately affected by food insecurity. A staggering 19% of Africa's population faces undernourishment, and the prevalence of stunted growth in children under five stands at a distressing 30.3%, with the highest rates in sub-Saharan Africa. As an overwhelmingly agrarian continent, with agriculture employing over 60% of the labor force, investing in this sector is paramount. Not only can it increase food production and alleviate hunger, but it can also bolster economic growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance overall food security, making it a crucial element in the battle against hunger in Africa. There is an opportunity for Pontem Analytics to actively invest in the agricultural sector and also provide consultancy (including data analytics) to help bolster the agricultural economics in Rwanda and other parts of Africa.
In summary, I hope it is clear why Rwanda was chosen as a location to start our venture in Africa and how Pontem Analytics is positioned to support Africa from a stable, safe and business-friendly country. Our first name, Pontem, comes from a Latin word that means “bridge”. Our expansion to Africa is to bridge a gap between Africa and the rest of the world, as well as data and discipline.
Exciting