Minister Christine Nkulikiyinka underscores the role of strategic collaboration in job creation and fostering a resilient economy amid global volatility
On Friday, 1 May 2026, Minister Christine Nkulikiyinka attended the celebrations of International Labour Day 2026 held at the University of Rwanda, bringing together workers, employers, and development partners to recognize and honour the indispensable contribution of all Rwandans engaged in labour, innovation, and the advancement of various economic sectors that drive national transformation.
The event was commemorated under the theme: “Partnering for Skills Development, Expanding Employment Opportunities, and Building a Resilient Economy.” The theme highlights the pivotal role of the workforce in Rwanda’s development trajectory while emphasizing the imperative of multi-stakeholder collaboration in enhancing skills development, broadening employment prospects, and reinforcing economic systems capable of withstanding global economic shocks and uncertainties.
Participants underscored the urgency of accelerating job creation initiatives, enhancing labour productivity, and reinforcing key productive sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. It was further emphasized that digital transformation must be expedited as a catalyst for improving service delivery efficiency and fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven economy.
Particular emphasis was placed on equipping Rwanda’s youth with relevant and market-responsive competencies through targeted skills development programmes. This approach is intended to enable young people to effectively harness both domestic and international employment opportunities, thereby maximizing the country’s demographic dividend.
Minister Christine Nkulikiyinka reiterated the Government of Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to promoting decent and productive employment, strengthening public-private partnerships, and ensuring that economic growth is translated into tangible and inclusive socio-economic opportunities that enhance the livelihoods of all citizens.
She further emphasized that sustainable economic transformation can only be achieved through coordinated action that aligns workforce development, private sector engagement, and inclusive policy frameworks capable of delivering equitable growth and long-term resilience.
