These reforms reflect the Government of Rwanda's sustained commitment to building a competitive, transparent, and investor-friendly environment that fosters innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
Transforming land management and urban planning
A major highlight among these reforms is the completion of the High-Resolution Topographic Mapping Project, initiated in 2021 and concluded in early 2025.
Led by the National Land Authority (NLA) in collaboration with the City of Kigali, MININFRA, and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the project established Rwanda's first set of highly accurate topographic maps.
These maps, developed using advanced technologies such as LiDAR, aerial photography, and satellite imagery, provide detailed representations of both natural and man-made features, including precise elevation data.
The initiative is expected to significantly improve long-term urban and infrastructure planning, particularly in the area of urban mobility, environmental management, and disaster preparedness.
Complementing this effort, the Building Permit Management and Information System (BPMIS) â€" KUBAKA Portal, launched in April 2025, modernizes the building permit application process, making it faster, transparent, and user-friendly for developers and local authorities.
Digital transformation in land and judicial systems
The National Land Authority (NLA) has launched several digital platforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in land management. One of these platforms is the upgraded Land Information Inquiry Portal, which offers faster access to land ownership details and classifications.
Additionally, the Land Application Tracking System enables applicants to follow their land transactions in real-time and collaborate seamlessly with authorities.
Another key initiative is the Rwanda Land Dashboard, which provides real-time, evidence-based data to support policymaking and ensure transparent decision-making.
Meanwhile, in the justice sector, the introduction of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS Version 2) in April 2025 marked a major step in digital judicial reform.
The system enables coordination of all judicial service providers electronically, significantly reducing costs, saving time, and allowing virtual court proceedings.
Similarly, the Kigali International Arbitration Center (KIAC) rolled out an Online Case Management Software, digitizing arbitration services and enabling Virtual Arbitration, which promotes faster, paperless, and more efficient dispute resolution.
Strengthening intellectual property and trade facilitation
Rwanda also strengthened the protection of innovations through the new Intellectual Property Law, enacted in June 2024, aligning the country with international IP standards and providing stronger safeguards for creators and investors.
In a major trade facilitation reform, the requirement for export licenses was eliminated in 2025. Exporters now only need licenses if required by the importing country, significantly reducing bureaucratic procedures and improving competitiveness.
Additionally, the validity of permits for quality and safety issued by regulatory bodies such as the Rwanda Food and Drug Authority (FDA), Rwanda Inspection and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA), and Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) has been extended from one year to five yearsâ€"a change that minimizes administrative costs and promotes business continuity. (This excludes pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices.)
Advancing service delivery and private sector efficiency
In May 2025, the Government introduced a Single Unified Portal for RSSB contributions and PAYE declarations for private sector entities. The system reduces the workload of filling multiple annexes and processes declarations for pension, medical, maternity, and tax contributions simultaneously, saving both time and resources.
To further reduce the cost of doing business, the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) also eliminated service fees for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) starting January 2025, boosting local enterprise competitiveness and supporting entrepreneurship.
Enhancing citizen services and utility access
Service delivery was further improved through the introduction of the Online Water Connection Service, launched in June 2025 by WASAC. The platform allows residents and property owners to apply for new water connections, upload documents, and track application status online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to branch offices and reducing processing time.
The 2025 reforms mark a new chapter in Rwanda's reform journeyâ€"one focused on digital transformation, transparency, and efficiency. From land management to justice, trade, and service delivery, these initiatives collectively reinforce Rwanda's vision of becoming a regional hub for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.
By integrating technology, institutional reforms, and citizen-focused services, Rwanda continues to build a governance model that promotes trust, fosters entrepreneurship, and positions the country as one of Africa's most forward-looking economies.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/key-business-reforms-shaping-rwanda-s-investment-landscape
