Rwanda’s economy grew by 9.7% in the first six months of 2026, driven largely by strong performance in the industrial sector, according to the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR).
BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye announced the figures on Thursday during the presentation of the Monetary Policy and Financial Stability Statement, which reviewed Rwanda’s economic and financial developments and outlined the outlook for 2026 and the medium term.
Hakuziyaremye said the strong growth recorded during the first half of the year was mainly supported by increased activity in the industrial sector, which continued to strengthen its contribution to the economy.
“The economy grew by 9.7% in the first half of 2026, mainly driven by strong performance in the industrial sector,” Hakuziyaremye said.
The growth was accompanied by a significant increase in Rwanda’s international trade, with exports rising by 52% during the period. Imports also increased, but at a slower pace, growing by nearly 19%.
The sharp rise in exports points to stronger demand for Rwandan goods and services on international markets, while the increase in imports reflects continued economic activity and demand for products and production inputs.
The BNR said the latest performance forms part of its assessment of Rwanda’s macroeconomic conditions, monetary policy and financial-sector stability as the country moves through 2026.
Beyond overall economic growth, the financial sector has also continued to expand, including pension assets managed by the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB).
Bernard Nsengiyumva, Head of Financial Stability at BNR, said the growth in pension assets has been supported by several factors, including increased pension contributions, investments in secure assets and improvements in technology and operational efficiency.
“The growth in pension assets managed by RSSB is mainly driven by increased pension contributions, investments in secure assets, and improvements in technology and operational efficiency,” Nsengiyumva said.
He said these developments are strengthening the sustainability of Rwanda’s pension system while improving services available to members.
“These changes help ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension system while improving the quality of services provided to members,” he added.
The pension-sector performance comes as Rwanda continues to deepen financial-sector development and improve the management of long-term savings, with technology increasingly being used to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
The BNR’s latest assessment also provides an outlook for the remainder of 2026, focusing on economic growth, inflation, monetary policy and financial stability.
With 9.7% economic growth, a 52% increase in exports and imports rising by nearly 19%, Rwanda’s first-half performance shows continued momentum in production and external trade, while the financial sector maintains its expansion through increased savings, investment and improved operational efficiency.
