• Rwanda’s GDP grew 7.8% in Q2 2025, up from 6.5% in Q1, driven mainly by services (50% of output).

• A GDP rebasing to 2024 raised the country’s economic size by 6% to 19,981 billion FRw ($13.7 billion).

• Growth persists despite regional tensions with the DRC that have disrupted several partnerships.

Rwanda’s economy expanded by 7.8% in the second quarter of 2025, compared with 6.5% in the previous quarter, the Finance Ministry said, citing data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda. Quarter-on-quarter growth reached 1.3%.

Rwanda’s economy grew by 7.8% in Q2 2025, up from 6.5% in Q1. This follows @statisticsRW 's rebasing of GDP to 2024 constant prices (up from 2017). This update provides a more accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date picture of our economy. #Rwanda #Economy https://t.co/sAtYxHy0sY pic.twitter.com/RG8ZNgT5GT

— Ministry of Finance & Economic Planning (@RwandaFinance) September 17, 2025

According to the ministry’s statement on September 17, services accounted for 50% of output, followed by agriculture at 23% and industry at 21%. Direct net taxes contributed the remaining 5%.

The strong performance followed a recent rebasing of gross domestic product to the new base year 2024. The revision increased Rwanda’s GDP for that year by 6% to 19,981 billion FRw ($13.7 billion), up from the previously reported 18,785 billion FRw.

Finance and Economic Planning Minister Yusuf Murangwa said the rebasing, normally conducted every three years, was delayed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The rebasing to a 2024 base year ensures our estimates are grounded in comprehensive and current economic data, enhancing evidence-based planning and investment,” Murangwa said.

The growth came despite regional headwinds. Rwanda faces strained diplomatic relations with the Democratic Republic of Congo, which have led to the suspension of several partnerships.

At current market prices, Rwanda’s GDP in Q2 2025 reached 5,798 billion FRw, up from 4,979 billion FRw a year earlier, official data showed.

This article was initially published in French by Ingrid Haffiny (intern)

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum