The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a new $250 million Extended Credit Facility for Rwanda, providing financial support through a 38-month programme designed to help the country maintain economic growth while safeguarding critical social and development spending.
According to the IMF, Rwanda’s economy has continued to demonstrate strong resilience despite increasing global economic uncertainty. However, the organisation warned that ongoing instability in the Middle East could create additional risks for the country by affecting economic growth, inflation levels, external balances and public debt sustainability.
Rwanda recorded stronger-than-expected economic performance in 2025, with growth reaching 9.4%, significantly exceeding earlier forecasts. Despite this robust expansion, rising global prices for oil and fertilisers are placing pressure on the economy, contributing to higher inflation and increasing fiscal challenges.
As a result, economic growth is expected to slow to below 6.8% in 2026 as the country adjusts to the impact of higher import costs and a more challenging international environment.
The IMF said the new financing arrangement will help Rwanda strengthen economic stability while supporting key government programmes. The Fund also encouraged authorities in Kigali to broaden domestic revenue generation, improve the management of public investments and strengthen oversight of capital expenditure to ensure efficient use of public resources.
The programme is expected to support Rwanda’s efforts to sustain long-term development goals while navigating external economic shocks and maintaining macroeconomic stability.
