Village shops in Rwanda

    Core area “Peaceful and inclusive societies” More public participation in municipalities

    More than 80 per cent of Rwandans live in rural areas. Germany is supporting efforts to strengthen local government in order to improve living conditions for those people. The authorities at district and municipal level know best where improvements in local infrastructure are required and what kind of public services are most needed. On the other hand, it is easier for civil society to make use of its right of say and exercise scrutiny of the administration at the local level.

    Improving basic services, ensuring participation

    Local infrastructure development is being financed through the Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA). Funds are being used, for instance, to build schools, markets and bus stations, and to terrace land for growing crops in order to prevent soil erosion. Germany is supporting the Fund through financial cooperation.

    Through technical cooperation projects, Germany is helping to improve the capacities of local authorities. The BMZ is promoting government efforts to provide more budget resources for municipalities and is assisting the latter to increase their revenue. In addition, Germany is working with the public administration and with civil society organisations to strengthen public participation in local planning and decision-making processes.

    Promoting transparency, increasing revenue

    Germany is also actively supporting public finance reforms aimed at increasing the efficiency and transparency of public investment. Rwanda was one of the first countries to join the Addis Tax Initiative. The initiative provides support to the government in its tax and customs reforms, with the long-term aim of increasing the country's tax ratio.

    As at: 05/01/2023