Kagame, UNECA chief discuss Rwanda’s economic growth and development priorities

By The Inspirer.

President Paul Kagame met Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), on Friday as Rwanda continues to pursue strong economic growth and long-term development goals.

The meeting, held on August 28, focused on Rwanda’s economic progress and efforts to align the country’s development priorities with its long-term vision.

The talks come as Rwanda’s economy continues to expand at a strong pace. Data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows that GDP grew by 10% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. GDP at current market prices reached Rwf6.346 trillion, up from Rwf5.276 trillion a year earlier.

The latest growth was supported by broad-based expansion across key sectors. Agriculture grew by 8%, industry by 13% and services by 7%, according to NISR.

Gatete, a Rwandan economist and former senior government official, has led UNECA since his appointment by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in October 2023. He previously served as Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Minister of Infrastructure and Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda.

UNECA, headquartered in Addis Ababa, works with African countries to promote economic and social development, strengthen regional integration and support policies aimed at accelerating sustainable development across the continent.

The meeting between Kagame and Gatete comes as Rwanda seeks to sustain its recent economic momentum while advancing longer-term development ambitions.