Rwanda has called for greater use of innovative financing mechanisms, including public-private partnerships and blended finance, as countries race to close the funding gap threatening achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Addressing the 2026 U.N. High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, Finance and Economic Planning Minister Yusuf Murangwa said governments must move beyond commitments and mobilize the capital needed to turn development plans into measurable results.
“The goals are within reach if countries are prepared to make the necessary investments,” Murangwa told the forum, arguing that financing, effective institutions and sound public policies must work together to accelerate implementation of the SDGs.
With many developing countries facing growing fiscal constraints and increasing demand for investment in health, education, infrastructure and climate resilience, Murangwa said governments should tap financing models that attract private capital while reducing investment risks.
He identified Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as one of the most effective tools for delivering large-scale infrastructure and energy projects, saying collaboration between governments and private investors can unlock resources that would otherwise remain out of reach.
Murangwa also promoted blended finance, which combines public, private and development partner funding to make investments more attractive by lowering risk. He said the approach can expand financing for projects with significant economic and social returns while easing pressure on public budgets.
Drawing on Rwanda’s own development experience, the minister said sustainable progress depends not only on financing but also on investing consistently in people. He cited healthcare, education and infrastructure as sectors that have underpinned Rwanda’s long-term economic transformation, while highlighting innovation and private enterprise as important drivers of future growth.
According to Murangwa, Rwanda’s development strategy under Vision 2050 demonstrates how long-term planning, institutional reforms and targeted investment can support inclusive and sustainable economic development.
The High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development is the United Nations’ annual platform for reviewing global progress toward the SDGs and identifying ways to accelerate implementation before the 2030 deadline. This year’s discussions have focused on persistent challenges, including poverty, climate change, inequality and the financing needed to keep the goals within reach.
Murangwa attended the forum alongside Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Martin Ngoga.
