The findings, released by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE) during the 18th Unity Club Intwararumuri Annual Forum on Saturday, November 8, indicate a 13-percentage-point increase since the first barometer was introduced in 2010.
According to Minister Jean Damascène Bizimana, the steady upward trend reflects Rwanda's resilience and the effectiveness of policies promoting social harmony.
'The current level of unity and reconciliation in Rwanda is commendable,' he said, noting that the index has improved from 82.3 percent in 2010 to 92.5 percent in 2015, and now 95.3 percent in 2025.
New focus on resilience
This year's edition of the barometer, which surveyed 12,300 respondents from across the country, introduced resilience as a key pillar alongside unity and reconciliation.
Minister Bizimana explained that resilience strengthens the other two pillars by equipping Rwandans to overcome challenges that threaten national cohesion, including the persistence of genocide ideology, negative social influences, and the erosion of cultural values.
The report attributes the strong performance to continued efforts through initiatives such as Ndi Umunyarwanda, civic education programs, and community dialogues that encourage reflection on shared history and identity.
How Rwandans view unity and reconciliation
The study found that Rwandans continue to demonstrate a strong sense of belonging and mutual trust. Unity was rated at 95.6 percent, reconciliation at 95 percent, while heroism and patriotism reached 98.7 percent. Respect for Rwandan traditions and beliefs scored 97.9 percent, social cohesion stood at 98.5 percent, and equal rights for all citizens were rated at 92 percent.
Respondents also emphasized the importance of commemorating the genocide against the Tutsi, which scored 99 percent in its contribution to reconciliation, while shared ancestry and collective identity scored 96.8 percent.
Overall, the findings depict a society that has not only healed but continues to build stronger foundations for peaceful coexistence.
Challenges that persist
Despite these positive results, the report identifies several areas that require further attention. About 23 percent of respondents said genocide ideology remains present in their communities, while 38 percent observed that some individuals still hold discriminatory or ethnic-based attitudes.
Additionally, 45 percent of respondents believe that emotional wounds from the genocide have yet to fully heal, particularly among survivors and younger generations.
Minister Bizimana warned of the growing influence of certain social media platforms that spread misinformation and attempt to distort Rwanda's history.
'Platforms operating from outside Rwanda continue to twist facts and undermine the country's unity and progress,' he said.
To build on the progress made, the barometer outlines several actions to further reinforce national cohesion. It calls for greater emphasis on teaching Rwandan language, history, and culture as central elements of identity, while also encouraging youth participation in initiatives that promote unity at family, community, and workplace levels.
The report further recommends investment in inclusive local dialogues to foster open discussions about Rwanda's history and promote truth-telling and reconciliation.
Bizimana said the progress made so far demonstrates the effectiveness of deliberate government policies that promote equality, justice, and social inclusion.
'The progress we see today is the result of sustained effort,' he noted. 'But we must continue ensuring that no remnants of division or discrimination are allowed to take root again.'
Founded by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, the Unity Club Intwararumuri brings together current and former government leaders and their spouses to champion unity, peace, and sustainable development. The organisation has played a key role in fostering dialogue and advancing reconciliation since its creation.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-s-unity-and-reconciliation-reach-95-new-barometer-shows
