Rwanda has been ranked first in sub-Saharan Africa for respect for the rule of law, order, security, and low corruption, according to the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2024.
In the absence of corruption category, Rwanda secured the top spot with a score of 0.68, reflecting the government’s strong anti-corruption framework and commitment to transparency. Mauritius (0.58), Botswana (0.57), Senegal (0.55), and Namibia (0.52) completed the top five.
Rwanda also excelled in civil justice, ranking first with a score of 0.66, ahead of Mauritius (0.62). In criminal justice, Rwanda ranked second in the region with a score of 0.56, showcasing its dedication to providing fair and efficient legal processes and equal access to justice.
With an overall score of 0.63 in the rule of law index, Rwanda leads the region in critical areas such as order and security, absence of corruption, and civil justice. The index evaluates countries based on eight key factors, including government accountability, open governance, fundamental rights, regulatory enforcement, and criminal justice.
In the order and security category, Rwanda scored an impressive 0.85, outperforming Mauritius and Namibia (0.75 each). Guinea, Ghana, Madagascar (0.71), Tanzania, Senegal (0.70 each), and Gambia (0.69) rounded out the top ten.
Rwanda’s stable and secure environment has played a significant role in driving economic growth and improving social welfare. The country’s success in maintaining security is supported by strategic international partnerships.
In December 2024, the Rwanda National Police signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ethiopian Federal Police to enhance cooperation on public security and cross-border threats. Similar agreements were signed with Qatar in October 2024, Dubai Police in March 2024, and Botswana in January 2024, addressing issues such as terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, and organized crime.
Rwanda’s consistent efforts in governance, transparency, and security continue to set a benchmark in sub-Saharan Africa, solidifying its reputation as a regional leader in rule of law and good governance.