Petty corruption in Rwanda rose sharply in 2025, with citizens paying more than 29.5 million Rwandan francs in bribes, according to report released Wednesday by Transparency International Rwanda. The average bribe per citizen was RWF262,148.
This year’s figure shows a significant increase from 2024, when more than RWF17 million in bribes were reported, and the average bribe per person was RWF65,543.
The organization’s 16th Rwanda Bribery Index shows corruption remains most prevalent in government services. Officials at the Rwanda Revenue Authority accounted for 32% of reported bribes, followed by local government offices at 20%. Health services accounted for 17%, banks 10%, and the National Police 9%.
Although bribe amounts have increased, the percentage of Rwandans reporting they were asked for bribes dropped from 29% in 2024 to 14% in 2025.
Appolinaire Mupiganyi, executive director of Transparency International Rwanda, said the rise in bribe amounts is driven by officials demanding larger sums from citizens.
“Corruption is a deeply ingrained problem. We do not expect it to reach zero, but more citizens are refusing to tolerate it,” Mupiganyi said. “Officials know bribery is a crime with severe consequences, and when they collect bribes, they take that risk. Some ask for higher amounts to protect themselves.”
The report also highlighted the impact on citizens. More than half of those asked for bribes earn less than RWF100,000 per month.
Ombudsman Madeilene Nirere
Ombudsman Madeilene Nirere said the government will continue to strengthen anti-corruption measures. Bribery carries penalties of five to seven years in prison, and property may be seized from those caught accepting bribes.
“Citizens should refuse to pay bribes and know their rights,” Nirere said. “Public services are free, and fees should only be paid where legally required. Any bribe should be reported immediately.”
The study also shows trends over the past five years: petty bribes totaled RWF14.1 million in 2021, RWF38.3 million in 2022, RWF22.8 million in 2023, RWF17.041 million in 2024, and RWF29.5 million in 2025.
