The event, held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, forms part of the country's ongoing work toward a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (2025â€"2028).
Co-organised by Initiatives for Peace and Human Rights (iPeace) and the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), with financial support from the African Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA), the roundtable brought together government officials, private sector leaders, civil society representatives, and development partners. The goal was to explore ways to integrate international human rights and environmental standards into Rwanda's domestic legal framework.
If adopted, the MHREDD law would position Rwanda alongside countries like France, Germany, and the European Union, which have implemented similar regulations to align corporate conduct with human rights and environmental sustainability.
In her opening remarks, Providence Umurungi, Chairperson of the NCHR, emphasised the importance of the discussions.
"Rwanda is preparing a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, which will provide a solid foundation for these discussions. Exploring a mandatory due diligence law is the next logical step to translate our commitments into tangible accountability, ensuring that economic growth goes hand-in-hand with respect for human rights and environmental protection," she stated.
Prof. Elvis Mbembe, CEO of iPeace, highlighted the need for a uniquely Rwandan model of due diligence.
"Today is about initiating a truly Rwandan model of due diligence. By learning from global best practices and tailoring them to our context, we can create a framework that supports responsible business, protects our people and planet, and reinforces Rwanda's leadership on the continent," he noted.
The discussions featured expert presentations on international MHREDD frameworks and lessons learned from other jurisdictions. Participants explored how Rwanda could develop a context-specific approach while addressing current challenges in the local business environment.
Key institutions represented included the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), and the Ministry of Justice (MINIJUST), alongside civil society organisations and private sector stakeholders.
Panel discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of embedding mandatory due diligence into Rwanda's laws. While many stakeholders recognised the complexity of monitoring supply chains and enforcing compliance, there was strong consensus on the urgency of aligning Rwanda's economic growth with international human rights and environmental standards.
The roundtable produced several key outcomes, including a shared understanding of the priorities and potential models for a Rwandan MHREDD law, a strengthened multi-stakeholder commitment to advancing the business and human rights agenda, and an agreement on follow-up actions to sustain momentum and lay the groundwork for future legislation.
Participants underscored that adopting such a law would not only safeguard people and the environment but also enhance Rwanda's reputation as a responsible and forward-looking investment destination. By embedding sustainability and human rights into its business ecosystem, Rwanda could further differentiate itself as a leader in Africa's drive for ethical development.
The Kigali roundtable is widely viewed as a milestone in Rwanda's journey toward embedding corporate responsibility in its governance framework. With consensus beginning to form around the need for MHREDD legislation, the country is set to build on its reputation for progressive policymaking.
Observers note that Rwanda's leadership in this area could inspire other African nations to pursue similar reforms, creating momentum across the continent. As multinational companies increasingly face scrutiny over their human rights and environmental practices, Rwanda's move toward MHREDD could also strengthen its position in global markets.
As the process unfolds, stakeholders will continue to refine the framework, balancing the need for accountability with support for business growth and innovation.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
