Effect of Agricultural Diplomacy Instruments on Rwanda’s Coffee and Tea Export Performance: A Case Study of the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB)
Mfitiryayo Jean de Dieu – School of Social Sciences. Kigali Independent University (ULK), Kigali, Rwanda.
Nyok Ajak Ajal Piot – School of Social Sciences. Kigali Independent University (ULK), Kigali, Rwanda.
Fred K. Wamalwa – Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
Email: mfitiryayo@gmail.com
Abstract: This study examines the effect of agricultural diplomacy instruments on Rwanda’s coffee and tea export performance under the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) from 2020 to 2026. Using an explanatory mixed-methods case study design, data were collected from 92 survey respondents and 12 key informants selected through Slovin’s formula andstratified purposive sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression in SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings show that agricultural trade agreements significantly enhanced export value and volume (Mean = 4.08, beta = 0.271, p = 0.001). Export promotion missions and international trade fairs exerted the strongest influence on market expansion (Mean = 4.15, beta = 0.412, p = 0.000). International market linkages and partnerships significantly influenced export destination diversification (Mean = 4.03, beta = 0.219, p = 0.010). Correlation analysis confirmed a strong relationship between agricultural diplomacy and export performance(r = 0.78, p < 0.05), with instruments jointly explaining 61% of export performance variance (R^2 = 0.61, F = 45.32, p < 0.001). Coffee export revenue reached 148.6 million in 2025, while tea export revenue reached 114.9 million across 47 destinations. The study concludes that agricultural diplomacy is a statistically significant driver of export growth. Key recommendations include establishing a national agricultural diplomacy strategy, deploying dedicated agricultural trade attachés, increasing promotional budgets, and expanding value addition.
