KIGALI, June 16, 2026 – Rwanda’s economy recorded 10% growth in the first quarter of 2026, compared to the same period in 2025, according to official figures released today by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at current market prices was estimated at Frw 6,346 billion in Q1 2026, up from Frw 5,276 billion in Q1 2025. The services sector remained the largest contributor to the economy, accounting for 52% of GDP, followed by industry at 24%, agriculture at 19%, and net indirect taxes at 5%.

Speaking during the release of the figures, Yusuf Murangwa, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, noted that the double-digit expansion reflects the momentum registered during the third and fourth quarters of 2025 and the resilience of the Rwandan economy, irrespective of global uncertainties and the continued effectiveness of government recovery and investment policies.

"The 10% growth in the first quarter underscores the strength of our economic fundamentals. We are particularly encouraged by the strong rebound in export crops and the sustained performance of manufacturing. However, the slow growth of food crops is something we are paying attention to, and the government plans to double efforts to ensure increased output,"Minister Murangwa said.

SECTORAL PERFORMANCE

Agriculture (8% growth, contributed 1.6 percentage points) – The agriculture sector grew by 8% in Q1 2026. Within this sector, export crops recorded a 39% increase, signaling strong external demand for Rwandan produce. Food crops production also rose by 3%.

Industry (13% growth, contributed 3.1 percentage points) – The industrial sector was the fastest-growing major sector, expanding by 13%. Key drivers included: Mining and quarrying (+20%), Manufacturing activities (+15%), and Construction activities (+11%).

Services (7% growth, contributed 3.9 percentage points) – The services sector, which remains the anchor of the economy, grew by 7%, contributing the largest share (3.9 percentage points) to overall GDP growth. Standout performers included: Information & communication services (+22%), Administration & support services (+20%), Wholesale & retail trade (+11%), Transport services (+11%), and Financial services (+11%).

Conversely, some sub-sectors faced headwinds, with hotels and restaurants declining by 16%, health services contracting by 18%, and public administration services edging down by 1%.