Rwanda’s economy is projected to grow 7.2% in 2026, placing it among the fastest-growing economies in Eastern Africa and across the continent, according to a new report by the U.N. Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
The report attributed Rwanda’s projected growth to sound macroeconomic management, sustained structural reforms and strategic public investment, with strong performance expected across the industry, services and agriculture sectors.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning said the findings reflect the country’s economic resilience despite continued global uncertainty.
“The report’s findings underscore the effectiveness of deliberate policy choices and the resilience of our economic fundamentals, even as global conditions remain challenging,” the ministry said in a statement.
According to the ECA, Rwanda has maintained growth momentum through continued investment in key sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, electrification and housing. The report also highlighted progress on the Bugesera International Airport project, which is expected to strengthen the country’s position as a regional transport and logistics hub.
The report said prudent public debt management and reforms aimed at improving the business environment have also supported Rwanda’s economic performance and investment climate.
Beyond economic indicators, the ECA highlighted Rwanda’s progress in tourism, poverty reduction, child health and women’s representation in Parliament, describing these achievements as evidence of broader socio-economic development.
The commission, however, urged countries across Eastern Africa to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation, deepen regional trade and accelerate structural transformation to sustain growth amid external economic headwinds.
Eastern Africa is expected to remain one of Africa’s fastest-growing regions, supported by expanding investment, infrastructure development and improving regional integration, although the report warned that global financial conditions, geopolitical tensions and climate-related risks continue to pose challenges to the region’s economic outlook.
