The 19th National Dialogue Council held in 2024, adopted 13 resolutions aimed at strengthening economic growth, improving citizens' livelihoods, and enhancing governance.
The State Minister for National Treasury at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera, has told Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) that overall implementation stands at more than 80%.
He said agriculture has seen steady improvement, driven by expanded cultivated land, irrigation projects, and supporting infrastructure.
Projects such as the development of the Nyiramageni and Akanyaru wetlands, along with irrigation schemes in Kirehe, Kayonza, and other areas, have played a key role. These efforts were accompanied by investments in post-harvest handling and storage to reduce losses.
Kabera emphasized that access to markets is critical for agricultural and livestock products, noting that more than 4,200 kilometers of feeder roads have been upgraded and maintained to improve connectivity. He added that over 58% of these roads are currently in good condition.
On the resolution calling for the establishment of furniture workshops across the country and increased value addition, Kabera said improved management systems have been introduced to ensure sustainability and profitability.
He noted that the facilities have so far created employment for more than 370,000 people, highlighting their importance to the economy and household incomes.
In the area of skills development, 24 technical and vocational education and training (TVET) schools have been completed since the conclusion of the 19th National Dialogue Council, while 135 others have started offering vocational courses. As a result, each administrative sector now has access to TVET programmes.
Growing diaspora contribution
Efforts to engage Rwandans living abroad have continued to focus on investment promotion and increasing remittances. Data from the National Bank of Rwanda shows that remittances amounted to USD 502 million in 2024, compared to USD 505 million in 2023.
Kabera said members of the diaspora have been sensitized about investment opportunities in sectors such as construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and industry.
He added that diaspora investment reached USD 35 million, describing the figure as a positive sign of strong commitment by Rwandans abroad to national development.
Other outcomes of the Umushyikirano resolutions include identifying young Rwandans pursuing advanced studies abroad and encouraging them to return home upon completion. According to Kabera, more than 150 skilled professionals have already returned and been integrated into key sectors facing skills shortages.
The 20th National Umushyikirano Council meeting is scheduled to take place on February 5â€"6, 2026.
The word Umushyikirano translates to a meeting where participants are able to exchange ideas, share experiences and question each other. Today Umushyikirano is known as the National Dialogue Council.
As part of efforts to reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared national identity, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices to enrich and adapt its development programs to the country's needs and context.
The result is a set of Home Grown Solutions, culturally owned practices translated into sustainable development programs. One of these Home Grown Solutions is Umushyikirano.
Governed by the Rwandan Constitution (Article 168), Umushyikirano is a forum where participants debate issues relating to the state of the nation, the state of local government and national unity. The Office of the Prime Minister is responsible for the overall co-ordination of Umushyikirano.
IGIHE
