Rwanda Wins International Award for Good Local Governance

Rwanda has received an international award recognizing excellence in local governance, presented during the Inclusive Democracy Forum in Africa (FIDEPA) held in Senegal.

The announcement was made on November 14, 2025, through a statement shared on the Ministry of Local Government’s official X (Twitter) account. The Ministry revealed that MINALOC was honored for its outstanding initiatives in improving service delivery.

The statement read: “Rwanda received this award in the Ministerial Category, acknowledging MINALOC’s efforts in enhancing service delivery through digital solutions at the local government level and its commitment to putting citizens at the center of development.”

Over the past 31 years, Rwanda has implemented various mechanisms aimed at empowering citizens and ensuring their voices are heard. As a result, citizen participation in national development has grown significantly, with more than 80% of Rwandans now actively contributing to problem-solving and decision-making processes up from 65.63% in 2018.

The country’s initiative to decentralize governance began in 2000, strengthening local government institutions and improving their service delivery capacity. District Councils, which oversee the implementation of planned activities, have played a critical role in increasing citizen engagement at all governance levels.

Local councils at the sector, cell, and village levels have also contributed to more efficient service delivery particularly in health, education, and community welfare while helping leaders easily identify and respond to citizens’ needs.

This model of governance, adopted after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the Liberation struggle, has been central to Rwanda’s successful rebuilding efforts. It emphasizes citizen participation, empowerment, inclusivity, and technological innovation, enabling Rwandans to actively shape and safeguard national development.

Rwanda’s integration of technology into governance (e-Government) has further strengthened transparency and accountability, providing citizens with easier access to information and direct communication with their leaders.

The country’s approach has become a valuable example for other African nations facing similar challenges. Several countries have already expressed interest in adopting Rwanda’s digital governance platforms, including the widely acclaimed Irembo system.