Rwanda’s economy grew by 10% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, according to data released Tuesday by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).
Gross domestic product (GDP) reached 6.346 trillion Rwandan francs (RWF), up from 5.276 trillion RWF in the first quarter of 2025. The services sector remained the largest contributor to the economy at 52%, followed by industry at 24%, agriculture at 19%, and other activities at 5%.
The figures were released during a joint briefing by NISR and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN).
Officials said growth was broad-based across key sectors, with industry expanding by 13%, agriculture by 8%, and services by 7%.
Agricultural exports rose by 39%, driven mainly by an 86% increase in coffee production. Tea production declined by 3%, while food crops increased by 3%.
The industrial sector remained a key driver of growth, supported by gains in mining and quarrying, which rose by 20%, construction at 11%, and manufacturing at 15%.
Within manufacturing, beverage production increased by 52%, construction materials such as cement and bricks rose by 57%, chemicals and plastics grew by 21%, and wood products increased by 22%.
The services sector also recorded steady growth. Wholesale and retail trade increased by 11%, while transport services also rose by 11%, supported by a 10% increase in road transport and a 7% rise in air transport.
Information and communications technology (ICT) services grew by 22%, while financial and insurance services increased by 11%. Education services rose by 3%, while restaurants and accommodation services declined by 16%.
Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa said global risks, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, have not significantly affected Rwanda’s economy so far, though authorities continue to monitor potential impacts.
He noted that the economy had already maintained strong momentum in late 2025, with growth of 11.8% in the third quarter and 11.2% in the fourth quarter.
“When there are no major disruptions, the economy continues on its growth path,” Murangwa said.
He added that the government is accelerating investment projects, improving conditions for investors, and strengthening domestic economic resilience to cushion against external shocks.
Despite global uncertainty, officials said Rwanda’s economy continues to show stable, broad-based growth driven mainly by industry, agriculture, and services.
