Global Immersion: Lessons from Rwanda on Conflict, Leadership, and Business Opportunities

Parts of Africa are now some of the most exciting regions of the world for business. A growing number of African countries have achieved steady, high growth rates over the last few decades. A wide range of sectors in these “lion” economies (commodities, tourism, agribusiness, eCommerce, oil and gas, retail, and more) are buzzing with activity and attention from foreign investors and multinationals. But how can companies and investors enter and operate efficiently in African countries? What challenges characterize the private sector in Africa, how do they vary with context, and what strategies can firms and organizations adopt to overcome them? Where can new MBAs interested in Africa add the most value? Rwanda is a wonderful country in which to explore these questions. In 1994, Rwanda suffered a brutal genocide in which nearly one million people were killed over a three-month period. In the years since, the country has rebuilt with remarkable results: Rwanda is now one of the safest countries in Africa, its economy continues to grow rapidly, and it has made great strides in reducing poverty and increasing entrepreneurship, education, and access to health care. The country has also been praised for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Armed with frameworks and analytical tools from management and economics, we will meet with executives in Rwanda to understand the leadership practices, processes, and structures that have led to Rwanda's remarkable recovery, reconciliation, current peace, and economic growth. This course will travel to Rwanda March 13-20, 2027. The 2026-2027 Global Immersion Program (GIP) mandatory fee for all classes is $2500 and provides students with double occupancy lodging, ground transportation and some meals. It does not cover roundtrip international airfare. Attendance both in New York and in-country and regular participation are a crucial part of the learning experience and as such attendance is mandatory. Please visit the Chazen Institute website to learn more about the Global Immersion Program and visit the Global Immersion Policies page to review policies affecting these courses. Please note all international travel involves risk. We do not control the cities and companies we visit. We try our best to plan a safe trip with positive experience. However, if your tolerance for risk or uncertainties is low, GIP is not for you. Also note Chazen travels often involve travel to emerging economies, exposing students to cultures and environments often times different than their own. This means differing levels of infrastructure, efficiency and standards affecting hotel stays, meals, traffic delays and transportation limitations. Please keep this in mind if you sign up for our travel programs — it is important to be considerate and flexible. International students with questions or concerns about traveling outside of the US should speak with the ISSO.