Human Rights Day is a time to reflect on our shared humanity, the progress we have made in upholding human dignity, and the challenges that lie ahead. This year, Rwanda marked the occasion with a dual celebration: Human Rights Day and the 25th Anniversary of the National Human Rights Commission. The global theme, "Our Rights, Our Future," served as a guiding light for discussions on achievements, aspirations, and the path ahead.In his opening remarks, Ozonnia Ojielo, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, reminded participants that human rights monitoring is not a "beauty contest" to judge nations but a shared commitment to improving lives. “It is not about how ugly we look or how beautiful we look,” he remarked, underscoring the essence of human rights as a recognition of national aspirations and a tool for collective progress. He added that the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process embodies these aspirations, encouraging stakeholders to continually work toward building a society where every citizen can take pride in their collective progress.Ojielo underscored the role of the United Nations in supporting Member States. “No UN Agency signed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights or any of the instruments. You signed as Member States,” he noted, emphasizing that global peace and security can only be achieved through complementarity. “Our role as the United Nations is serve as your housekeeper - to support, accompany and assist you in your journey.”Rwanda’s Achievements in Human RightsRwanda’s abolition of the death penalty on July 25, 2007, stands as a powerful testament to the country’s dedication to upholding human rights. Significant strides have also been made in areas such as healthcare, education, gender equality, and justice. This progress embodies what Ojielo referred to as "the logic of inclusivity," a cornerstone of Rwanda’s development model and its commitment to leaving no one behind.The Mo Ibrahim Foundation ranks Rwanda’s legal system as the third-best in Africa, a recognition of the country’s journey in strengthening the rule of law. However, as emphasized by Ojielo and other speakers, this achievement should be viewed as a milestone, not the final destination. “No state is perfect in realizing human rights,” Ojielo stated, calling for sustained collective efforts to advance human rights and governance.The Interconnection of Human Rights and Sustainable DevelopmentA key focus of the discussions was the intersection between human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Sometimes people assume that human rights are just about political issues,” Ojielo explained. “But the fundamental underpinning of human rights is the SDGs.” He elaborated on how the SDGs' pillars—people, prosperity, planet, peace, and partnerships— are intrinsically linked to social, economic, environmental, and political rights. By advancing the SDGs, nations simultaneously fulfill their human rights commitments, reinforcing the interconnectedness of these global frameworks. Reflecting on the FutureWhile celebrating progress, the event also provided a platform for reflection on emerging challenges. Providence Umurungi, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, acknowledged the critical role of the UN and civil society in supporting Rwanda’s journey. “We are taking this opportunity to recognize the progress we have made, celebrate achievements, and reflect on challenges—not just as an institution but as a country. We truly value the continued fruitful partnership with the United Nations,” she said.Honorable Minister Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, highlighted the need to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. “Do these instruments have the power to respond to problems that will emerge in the future?” he asked, emphasizing the importance of renewing collective efforts to uphold human rights in an ever-evolving world. His call to action reinforced the event’s focus on adapting human rights frameworks to meet future challenges effectively.A Collective Spirit for TransformationThe discussions highlighted the role of civil society, state actors, and international organizations in safeguarding and advancing human rights. Ojielo described civil society as the “early warning systems” of society, emphasizing their preventive role in addressing human rights violations. “This trinity of protection, transformation, and prevention is why we are all stakeholders,” he said.Looking ahead, the unwavering commitment to human rights remains paramount. As Ojielo aptly put it, “We are on a constant journey toward making it better. Human rights are a pathway to solutions—a critical framework for preventing, transforming, and protecting all of us in our societies.”As Rwanda and the world celebrate Human Rights Day, the message is clear: the journey of upholding human rights is ongoing. Upholding human rights is a continuous endeavour, requiring collaboration, introspection, and adaptability to address emerging challenges. Through collective effort, the aspiration for a more just, inclusive, and equitable society can become a reality.About Human Rights DayHuman Rights Day is observed annually on 10 December around the world. It commemorates the anniversary of one of the most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document enshrines the inalienable rights to which every human being is entitled—regardless of race, color, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or any other status.The Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 and, for the first time, set out fundamental human rights to be universally protected.Each year, partners come together to renew their commitment to better implement the principles of the Declaration. Its first article states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” This principle serves as the foundation for all initiatives undertaken by states to advance inclusive development.

Peace, instability, and insecurity remain significant barriers to intra-African trade and are often cited by investors and traders as reasons for its slow growth. Concerns about inefficient infrastructure, both physical and digital, combined with conflicts, have hindered the free movement of people and goods critical for trade.Speaking at the Trade Development Forum, UN Resident Coordinator Ozonnia Ojielo challenged Africa's approach to these issues, emphasizing the need to shift focus from politics to economics as a foundation for peace and prosperity.“The sad reality is that right now, most of our countries are focusing on politics when they should be focusing on economics. The logic behind the European Union's integration is that, after warring with each other for hundreds of years, European countries recognized that fostering business partnerships and interdependence would not only end wars but also pave the way for lasting peace and regional integration. They were at war with each other until Europe realized that economics creates incentives and motivation for peace through joint investments. If we can do business together, we cannot hurt each other,” said Ojielo.The Forum moderated by Pascal Lamy, former Director-General of the WTO, featured a distinguished panel including Amb. Erastus Mwencha, Former Deputy Secretary-General of COMESA; Annette Mutaawe, Deputy Secretary-General of the EAC; Amb. Belén Calvo Uyarra, European Union Ambassador to Rwanda; and Jas Bedi, Chairman of the Kenya Export Promotion & Branding Agency.Intra-African Trade: A Sobering RealityDespite the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in January 2021, intra-African trade remains stagnant. According to the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), intra-African trade as a share of global trade dropped from 14.5% in 2021 to 13.7% in 2022. Exports within Africa also saw no improvement declining from 18.2% to 17. 9%, while imports hovered at 12.1% from 12.8%.“We’ve been discussing One-Stop Border Posts, but why don’t we aim for non-stop borders, allowing trucks to move seamlessly across borders?” questioned Amb. Mwencha, emphasizing the urgency for transformative solutions.Digitalization: The Key to Unlocking TradeDigitalization is a critical component of the AfCFTA and aligns with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy for 2020–2030, which envisions a unified digital marketplace.Highlighting the potential of digital tools, Jas Bedi demonstrated the live session on the E-tariff book. “In seconds, the site shows that the tariff for tea from Kenya to South Africa, currently 240 cents per kilo, will be zero by 2030. Meanwhile, tea from outside Africa will continue to attract 400 cents per kilo. It’s working; it’s happening,” he said.During the Forum, UNECA presented recommendations for enhancing intra-African trade through digitalisation from the paper titled “Enhancing Intra-African Trade, Through Digitalisation From a Regulatory Perspective.” The key recommendations cited are:Harmonizing regulations on cross-border data transfer and adopting a continental-wide data protection framework.Cooperating on standards for digital trade, including certification, testing requirements, and encryption standards.Facilitating African firms' participation in public procurement beyond domestic markets.To date, promising digital tools making an impact include:Electronic Customs Systems: Faster border processing through real-time data exchanges.E-Certificates of Origin: Simplifying compliance with AfCFTA rules.Electronic Cargo Tracking Systems: Enhancing security and transparency in cross-border trade.“At a strategic level, the UN, through its Secretary-General and various organizations, is advocating against digital apartheid. The UN voice is becoming increasingly vital in this transformation,” reiterated Ojielo.Driving Africa’s Digital Trade RevolutionThe Trade Development Forum, co-hosted by the Rwandan Government and TradeMark Africa, was held in Kigali under the theme "Unlocking Africa’s Trade Potential through Digital Innovation." The event highlighted the transformative role of technology in connecting markets, empowering businesses, and driving inclusive economic growth; laying a strong foundation for advancing Africa’s prosperity and peace.

Over 15 Regional Directors attended a thought-provoking briefing meeting on Wednesday, organized by the UN Resident Coordinator in Rwanda and DCO Africa. This was an important opportunity for the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Rwanda to present the status of the new Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and share strategic asks with the Africa Regional Collaboration Platform for better coordination and synergy in delivering impactful results.Chaired by DCO Regional Director for Africa, Mr. Yacoub Ali El-Hillo, the meeting emphasized the critical need to break silos and enhance the UN’s strategic positioning.Breaking Silos for Greater Impact“This is an opportunity to interact and strategize how we can better position ourselves to support Rwanda’s priorities. I had an opportunity to attend the UNCT Rwanda retreat a couple of months ago, and the message from the Rwandan government was crystal clear: they expect the UN to move beyond a scattered, tiny project-based approach and instead operate in synergy, truly integrated at scale, to deliver bigger and more meaningful impact. That is why this conversation is very important for Regional Directors and UNCT members to fully align interventions as you implement the new Cooperation Framework,” said Mr. El-Hillo.Rwanda’s Socio-Economic Development: Resilience Amidst ChallengesRwanda’s economic and social progress continues to be remarkable, showcasing resilience and growth even after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The economy rebounded strongly, achieving 10.9% GDP growth in 2021, and stabilized at 8% by 2023—well above regional averages. Key sectors driving this growth include services, construction, and manufacturing, with notable advancements in technology and food crop recovery. The projected growth for 2024 remains strong at 8.3%, despite potential risks such as the Marburg Virus Disease.Social indicators have also improved significantly. Rwanda’s Human Development Index (HDI) reflects advances in health, education, and income, with GDP per capita rising from USD 710 in 2014 to an estimated USD 1,040 in 2023. Life expectancy has increased from 64 to 70 years, and nearly universal primary school enrollment has been achieved. Rwanda is a leader in healthcare, with maternal mortality reduced to 180 per 100,000 live births and under-five mortality to 35 per 1,000. Over 90% of the population now has access to quality healthcare through universal health coverage, further reinforcing Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable development.“Though there are some challenges on security and relations in the region, there is a strong commitment, and we are having different kinds of conversations with the government and development partners on how we programmatically work together to promote citizen-to-citizen engagement across borders,” said Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator.The UN Rwanda Cooperation FrameworkThe impressive socio-economic progress in Rwanda presents both challenges and opportunities that require the UN to work differently. To respond effectively, the UN Rwanda Cooperation Framework (CF) has been developed, informed by trends such as Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation and the UN’s guiding principles.The process involved several steps:The development of the UNSDCF Conceptual FrameworkThe elaboration of the UNSDCF Strategic OfferUNSDCF Strategic Offer“We had to look at various parameters, global, continental, and regional orientation. We were inspired by the National Strategy for Transformation, and we also looked at the programming around the five Ps. We focused on transformative entry points that would catalyze an integrated approach to contribute to the Government’s aspirations,” said Mutinta Nseluke Hambayi, Chair of the Programme Management Team and Deputy Country Director of WFP Rwanda.“We had to strategically look at what outcomes would be high-level and represent all of us, all of our mandates. We had to agree to disagree and finally found a common understanding,” Mutinta added.The new Cooperation Framework is structured around three pillars: Economic Transformation, Social Transformation, and Transformational Governance. Three transitions—food systems, jobs and social protection, and education—play a central role, while three other key enablers—Digital Connectivity, Energy Access and Affordability, and Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Pollution—will support the framework’s objectives.Rwanda's Vision and UN Rwanda's Commitment“The ambitions of the Rwandan government are high and clear. The most important thing is that the senior government officials I spoke to appreciated UN Rwanda’s collective support. I am very much impressed by this new Cooperation Framework,” said Etleva Kadilli, Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa.Speaking from the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, Etleva added, “At the end of the day, it's our collective mandate that counts. In Rwanda, with 60% youth, we must go beyond pilots and scale proof of concepts. Tackling education without addressing stunting is not the way forward—it’s about working smartly, in joint efforts, with political will and strong government support!”UN Rwanda’s Strategic Asks to Regional DirectorsUnder the leadership of Ozonnia Ojielo, the UN Resident Coordinator, UNCT Rwanda presented 8 strategic asks that align with key development priorities such as climate action, regional integration, labor mobility, macro-economic policy support, health, gender equality, data-driven decision-making, and country-centric approaches.He urged the Regional Directors to deploy experts in the RCO who will help tackle some of the most pressing challenges outlined in the asks.“We have put together these asks to you, and we are asking you to please join us in engaging in a business-as-usual approach. If anyone has doubts about the direction of travel for the UN, I would ask them to look at the recent political transitions in several countries and what it means for us as the United Nations System. We are almost in an existential struggle, and now we need to prove ourselves. Our request is that you use UN Rwanda as your testing ground for a new UN configuration,” said Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator.Regional Directors expressed strong support for these strategic asks and affirmed their commitment to help UN Rwanda achieve its goals.“As UN-Habitat, you can count on us. We are bringing our expertise in affordable housing to Rwanda. We’ve seen the power of collaboration, and we are committed to helping Rwanda’s vision take shape. We have realized our commonalities—working together is key. The government is seeking innovative ideas, and the UN must be poised to lead in this crucial space,” said Ishaku Maitumbi, Head of Sub-Regional Office, East and Horn of Africa, UN-Habitat.“Rwanda normally sets the bar high, so Ozonnia and the UNCT have taken it even higher. I’m not surprised because I know that’s exactly what Rwanda demands of us. We are committed to supporting the vision expressed in the new Cooperation Framework,” said Matthias Naab, Director, UNDP Regional Service Center, Addis Ababa.UNCT Without Borders: A Call for Regional CollaborationDuring the meeting, Ozonnia emphasized the critical need for UNCTs in the region to collaborate beyond borders while addressing common challenges.“This is the leadership we need. Countries in the region face both challenges and opportunities, and we are eager to collaborate beyond borders. Working together with UNCTs in the region will be key in supporting both refugees and host communities. Count on us for full support!” said Mamadou Dian Balde, UNHCR’s Regional Director for East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes.At the conclusion of the meeting, DCO Regional Director for Africa Mr. Yacoub Ali El-Hillo reiterated the importance of working together across borders.“Thank you, Ozonnia and the UN Country Team, for this very rich conversation. I suggest we reconvene mid-next year to see how things are progressing,” he concluded.The meeting was a powerful step towards fostering greater synergy within the UN System in Rwanda. The regional directors who attended represent a diverse range of agencies, including WFP, OCHA, UNICEF, ITU, UNFPA, UNAIDS, IOM, OHCHR, UN Women, IFAD, UNHCR, UNDP, UN-Habitat, UNESCO, WHO, FAO, and UNECA. Their collective commitment to breaking silos and working collaboratively will be crucial in implementing the new Cooperation Framework. By aligning efforts and leveraging each agency's expertise, the UN Country Team in Rwanda is poised to drive meaningful and impactful change, in line with the country's ambitious development goals.

At their regular monthly gathering on Friday 16th August 2024, the Development Partners Group convened for their first meeting following Rwanda's recent general elections and the swearing-in of the newly elected President, Prime Minister, and 80 Members of Parliament, including the new Speaker. The meeting set the stage for renewed collaboration between Development Partners, as the country advances into its next phase of growth and transformation, it is poised to harness new opportunities while addressing emerging challenges. “On behalf of all Development Partners in Rwanda, I would like to say hearty congratulations to His Excellence President Paul Kagame on his inauguration for another term in office,” said Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator. Agriculture: The Backbone of Rwanda's Economy With the realization of the crucial role of the agriculture sector in social transformation, women’s economic empowerment, and youth employment, the DPs held a policy dialogue to unpack how to better position their efforts in building resilient and sustainable Agri-food Systems. During the Development Partners meeting, Dr. Olivier Kamana, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources made a presentation on the key elements of the new Rwanda’s Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5). “The strategies that we had before were only tailored to Agriculture, taking agriculture and livestock development as one sector. But now we are taking a wider multisectoral approach and considering agri-food systems and integrating climate resilience” he said.The Ministry states that Agriculture development has contributed to about two-thirds of the poverty reduction achieved between 2001 and 2017. In 2023, the sector accounted for 27% of GDP and about 34% of exports. Whilst nearly 69% of households are engaged in agriculture, and an estimated 400,000 people are employed in agri-food systems. The PSTA5 emphasizes sustainability, resilience, and nutrition through three key priorities: modernizing agriculture and animal resources, improving market linkages and post-harvest management, and strengthening enablers for effective food systems. It aims to scale up climate-smart agriculture, expand irrigation, improve nutrition and storage, enhance extension services, drive research, and commercialize agriculture. AgriHubs and Animal Hubs will foster synergies among stakeholders, while digital technologies and strong partnerships are essential for progress. As the Africa Food Systems Summit approaches, Partners are urged to align efforts, establish legacy programs, and engage in a collaborative approach to shape Rwanda's sustainable agri-food future. As Rwanda embarks on its new National Development Programme (NST2) and the UN with the new Cooperation Framework, the meeting served as an opportunity to renew joint efforts in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in Rwanda.   “ We are looking forward to five years of impactful collaboration between Development Partners and the Government of Rwanda” concluded Ojielo.