Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, has called on countries around the world to strengthen long-term planning, adopt effective public policies, and build resilient institutions to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking on July 13, 2026, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Murangwa said sustainable development can only be achieved when governments place people’s well-being at the center of national development strategies.
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Rwanda Shares Development Experience
Murangwa, accompanied by Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Martin Ngoga, was attending the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, held from July 13 to 15, 2026.
The forum brought together ministers and senior government officials from UN member states to assess global progress toward achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Long-Term Planning Drives Progress
Addressing delegates, Murangwa said countries that prioritize sustainable development through effective planning and strong institutions are better positioned to improve the lives of their citizens.
“Our experience shows that accelerating the path to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals is possible when it is prioritized by the country. It must also be supported by good policies, strong institutions and investments that generate sustainable economic and social benefits for the population,” he said.
He emphasized that lasting development depends on sustained investment in people, institutions, and inclusive economic growth.
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Rwanda Reports Strong Economic Gains
Murangwa highlighted Rwanda’s development achievements, noting that the country’s economy recorded an average annual growth of 9% between 2021 and 2025, while the national poverty rate declined from 39.8% in 2017 to 27.4% in 2024.
He also said life expectancy increased to 70.2 years in 2025, reflecting continued improvements in healthcare and living standards.
he said: “These are not just economic figures. They show that living standards have improved, people have gained more opportunities, and the ability to cope with challenges is what leads to the achievement of many of the Sustainable Development Goals.”
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Progress Toward the 2030 Agenda
The minister explained that reducing poverty has contributed to improvements in education, healthcare, nutrition, employment, and sustainable economic growth.
He attributed Rwanda’s progress to long-term national planning, investment in human capital, and strong institutions capable of effectively implementing government policies.
According to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, by early 2026, 28% of Rwanda’s SDG indicators had been achieved or remain on track, while 53% are progressing but require faster implementation. The remaining 19% are still off track, highlighting the need for increased investment and stronger policy action to meet the 2030 targets.
