Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection in Rwanda

In January 2024, the Government of Rwanda expressed its interest in becoming a pathfinder country under the United Nations Joint Initiative on the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions. This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening social protection and fostering decent employment opportunities, as outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation. The strategy, officially adopted as the country’s development blueprint, prioritizes economic transformation, including job creation and expanded social protection coverage. With the related sectoral strategic plans nearing finalization, Rwanda is advancing to the next phase of the process, which includes developing a national roadmap and establishing a coordination mechanism to oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of the initiative. The Global Accelerator initiative in Rwanda focuses on addressing key labor market and social protection challenges to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Under the leadership of the Government of Rwanda and with technical support from the United Nations, the initiative brings together national stakeholders, private sector partners, and development organizations to create a coherent framework for accelerating job creation, formalizing informal employment, and enhancing social protection systems. The United Nations Joint Programme facilitates the implementation of the initiative through several key actions. A strategic framework is being developed to guide efforts in expanding decent work opportunities and strengthening social protection mechanisms, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and international labor standards. Through stakeholder consultations and capacity-building workshops, barriers to formal employment are identified, and targeted interventions are designed to support businesses and workers in transitioning to the formal economy. Given that agriculture remains a dominant sector in Rwanda’s economy, specific strategies are being formulated to improve labor conditions, enhance productivity, and integrate smallholder farmers into social protection schemes. Evidence-based research is being conducted to analyze the challenges faced by youth who are not in employment, education, or training. Tailored recommendations are being developed to strengthen skills development programs and increase access to employment opportunities. By leveraging Rwanda’s strong institutional framework and commitment to social and economic reforms, the initiative contributes to national development efforts by creating an inclusive labor market, improving access to social protection, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, Rwanda is positioned as a leader in advancing job-centered policies that ensure resilience and social equity.

Project symbol

RWA/24/50/UND

Admin unit

CO-Dar es Salaam

Start date

21/02/2025

End date

27/02/2026

Total allocation

100000

Total expenditure

Status

Closed

83395

Development Partners

Multi Partner Trust Fund Office, UNDP

Country/Countries

Rwanda

Outcomes

Output 9.1. Improved coherence in multilateral support for the development and financing of integrated policy responses for social justice through decent work