The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) has reported that the number of young people not in employment, education, or training has increased by 1.3% to 24.7% as of August 2026, up from 23.4% in August 2025. This data is part of the latest labor market survey conducted in August 2026. The statistics on youth unemployment cover individuals aged between 16 and 30.
The increase in youth unemployment is more pronounced among young men, with their unemployment rate rising by 5.4% to 23% in August 2026, up from 17.6% in August 2025. In contrast, the unemployment rate among young women decreased slightly from 29.4% to 29%. Despite this decrease, young women continue to be more likely to be unemployed than young men.
The labor market survey also found that 52.8% of young people were employed, compared to 54.8% of individuals aged 31 and above. The youth unemployment rate of 18.8% is higher than the 13.1% recorded among adults. Overall, the unemployment rate in Rwanda increased from 13.4% in August 2025 to 15.6% in August 2026.
According to the NISR, approximately 4.8 million people were employed, while 878,000 were unemployed, and 3.2 million were not in employment, education, or training. A UNDP report released in April 2026 highlighted that many young people in Rwanda are engaged in low-productivity jobs or face difficulties finding employment that matches their skills and education.
The report identified gaps in practical skills, technological skills, and soft skills, as well as inadequate linkages between job providers and training institutions. It also noted that young women and those from rural areas face significant challenges in accessing opportunities.
The Rwandan government has launched the National Strategy for Job Creation and Skills Development, aiming to create 1.25 million high-productivity jobs by 2029. The strategy includes job-linked training, internships, and short courses for those not in employment, education, or training.
Additionally, the government is implementing the Priority Skills for Growth and Youth Empowerment program, valued at $200 million. The program aims to support over 200,000 individuals, including young people and workers, in acquiring market-relevant skills by 2029. A previous training program supported by the World Bank helped around 24,000 young people not in employment, education, or training, and those seeking to upskill, with 82% securing jobs or starting businesses within nine months of completion.
Key points
- The youth unemployment rate in Rwanda has increased to 24.7% as of August 2026.
- Young men experienced a 5.4% rise in unemployment, while young women's unemployment decreased slightly.
- The Rwandan government has launched initiatives to address youth unemployment, including job-linked training and skills development programs.
