On October 29, the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) presented its 2023-2024 report to a joint session of Parliament, where members of both chambers expressed their appreciation for the insights and data shared. The comprehensive report highlighted performance across 16 sectors, reflecting both high achievements and areas needing attention.
The Citizen Report Card (CRC) 2024, an annual assessment of public service satisfaction, recorded an overall satisfaction rating of 76.5%. Nine of the evaluated categories exceeded the 75% satisfaction mark, indicating solid performance in several areas of governance. The CRC offers valuable feedback from Rwandans on the quality of services delivered at the grassroots level, aiming to support policymakers in enhancing public service delivery.
Top and Bottom Performing Sectors
According to the report, security services scored the highest, with an impressive 91.3% satisfaction rate. This result underscores the stability and public confidence in Rwanda’s safety measures and security framework. In contrast, agricultural services rated lowest, with a score of 61.5%, highlighting challenges in a sector crucial to Rwanda’s economy.
In addition to security, other highly rated sectors include governance principles and trust in management (90.2%), citizen participation in service delivery (89.2%), and justice services (81.6%). Meanwhile, technology and communication services were rated at 75.3%, just above the threshold, reflecting some progress in bridging digital access across the country.
Focus on Agriculture and Infrastructure Improvements
RGB CEO, Doris Uwicyeza Picard, emphasized the importance of addressing gaps in agriculture, infrastructure, and land use. “We need to focus on increasing agricultural productivity and ensure better land-use planning through master plans,” she said. She further underscored the need for continued infrastructure delivery to residential areas and the establishment of sustainable systems for road and trench maintenance.
The report also pointed to the need for structural improvements in Early Childhood Development Centers (ECDs), including better equipment and expanded infrastructure, particularly in community-based centers. This initiative aims to enhance support for children in their formative years.
Recommendations for Governance and Service Delivery
The report presents targeted recommendations to improve service delivery and governance, urging a focus on enhancing land committees’ functionality at local levels and bolstering local land officers’ capacity. Additionally, it stressed the importance of strengthening the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF) to increase active member participation.
Sector-Specific Recommendations:
- Agriculture: Boost productivity and efficiency.
- Land Use: Advance land-use planning through updated master plans.
- Infrastructure: Provide basic infrastructure and maintain essential road networks.
- Social Services: Evaluate and enhance social housing and ECD structures.
- Justice: Accelerate judicial processes to ensure timely case resolutions.
As RGB’s findings are taken up by Parliament, the proposed strategies signal an ongoing commitment to transparent and responsive governance, with particular attention to critical sectors impacting the daily lives of Rwandans. The report underscores RGB’s role in guiding effective public service improvements, while aligning with the national vision of inclusive development and prosperity.
