The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) has reported that the unemployment rate among young people in Rwanda has risen to 24.7% as of August 2026, up from 23.4% in August 2025. This represents a 1.3% increase in the number of young people who are not in employment, education, or training. The data was collected as part of a survey on the labor market, which was conducted in August 2026.
The increase in youth unemployment was more pronounced among young men, with a 5.4% rise in those not in employment, education, or training, from 17.6% in August 2025 to 23% in August 2026. In contrast, the 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 survey also found that 52.8% of young people were employed, compared to 54.8% of people aged 31 and above. The youth unemployment rate of 18.8% is higher than the 13.1% rate for adults. Overall, the unemployment rate in Rwanda increased from 13.4% in August 2025 to 15.6% in August 2026.
According to the survey, 4.8 million people were employed, while 878,000 people were unemployed, and 3.2 million people were not in employment, education, or training. A report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in April 2026 found that many young people in Rwanda were in low-productivity jobs or faced difficulties finding employment that matched their skills and education.
The report highlighted gaps in practical skills, technology, and soft skills, as well as inadequate linkages between job providers and training institutions. It also found that young women and those from rural areas faced greater challenges in accessing opportunities. To address these challenges, the Rwandan government has developed the National Strategy for Job Creation and Skills Development, which aims to create 1.25 million jobs by 2029.
The strategy includes training programs linked to employment, internships, and short courses for those not in employment, education, or training. The government is also implementing the Priority Skills for Growth and Youth Empowerment program, which has a budget of $200 million and aims to support over 200,000 people, including young people and workers, in acquiring skills that are in demand in the labor market by 2029.
A previous training program supported by the World Bank helped around 24,000 young people who were not in employment, education, or training, as well as workers seeking to upgrade their skills. According to the World Bank, 82% of participants in this program found employment or started their own businesses within nine months of completing the training.
Key points
- The youth unemployment rate in Rwanda has increased to 24.7% as of August 2026.
- The government has launched initiatives to address youth unemployment, including training programs and job creation strategies.
- Young women and those from rural areas face greater challenges in accessing employment opportunities.
