Rwanda: Rwanda to export 3D graphic drawing computer system to the US

Highway Africa News Agency

Report by David Kezio-Musoke

Rwanda is set to export 3D graphic drawing computer system to manufacturing companies in the United States (US). Dr Raphael Mmasi, the Director of National Computing Centre (NCC)of Rwanda Information and Technology Authority (RITA) told HANA recently that, "The 3D graphic drawing computer system will help manufacturing companies in US and around the world streamline product development, cut costs and re-use design data."

Only the two dimension 2D computer design system has been available for use in graphic drawings by the manufacturing companies in the US. 3D and 2D graphic drawing computer systems are computer-based tools that assist engineers, architects and other design professionals in their design activities. They are usually referred to as CAD. Rwanda is the only African country to embark on building a 3D graphic drawing computer system that will convert two dimension data into 3D models required by US manufacturing firms that use computer graphics. This ICT government project is being built with the help of Solid Works Corporation, a US firm called Gasabo 3D Design.

Mmasi said that others in the Gasabo 3D Design project include the Rwanda Information Technology Authority (RITA), the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) and the École Technique Officielle (ETO) Gitarama high school helped which will help train required manpower to spearhead the project. "To access the Rwanda provided 3D CAD service, the US firms will have to pay, creating an ICT business venture between the two countries," he said.

Mmasi said the CAD dimension system is the new ICT program to be developed in the country, expected also to benefit home industries engaged into manufacturing processes that use graphic drawings.

"ICT is not all about computers, but efficient production from their use" he said, observing that Gasabo 3D Design project will provide fast, accurate file conversion as a service, enabling worldwide SolidWorks customers to leverage their existing 2D design data without having to do it in-house. The commitment by SolidWorks Corporation to provide software and business expertise to launch and grow 3D Design project, has prompted its CEO John McEleney to visit the country to observe preparations for the implementation of the project.

Gasabo 3D Design project is expected to provide large manufacturers a cost-effective and fast way to convert vital 2D files into accurate 3D models, which manufacturers will be able to modify and build upon to meet customer needs.

This efficiency will help both international and national companies stay alert, so they can design better products and excel in a global economy.