Corruption

Corruption Offenses in Rwanda

Rwanda maintains a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, enforced through comprehensive legislation and dedicated institutions. The Office of the Ombudsman was established in 2003 as Rwanda's primary anti-corruption institution.

Legal Framework

Law N° 54/2018 of 13/08/2018 on fighting against corruption expanded the definition to include:

Bribery

Sexual corruption

Embezzlement

Decisions based on favoritism, friendship or hatred

Influence peddling

Illicit enrichment

Use of public property for unintended purposes

Abuse of power

Demanding or receiving undue/excessive money

Institutional Requirements

Under Article 3, every public organ, private institution, civil society member, or international organization operating in Rwanda must implement mechanisms for corruption prevention.

Whistleblower Protection

The law encourages reporting corruption:

A person who gives/receives illegal benefit to help justice organs get evidence is not considered to have committed an offense if they inform judicial organs before the act occurs

No criminal liability for those who provide information and evidence before investigations commence

Office of the Ombudsman

Currently governed by Law N° 54/2021 of 29/08/2021. Responsibilities:

Prevention and investigation of corruption

Verification of asset declarations

Advising government on anti-corruption policies

Conducting risk assessments

Raising public awareness

Coordinating with international institutions

Rwanda's Performance

- 2024 Transparency International Score: 57/100

Steady increase from 51/100 in 2022

Ranked among Africa's least corrupt countries

Reporting Corruption

- Toll-free hotline: 997

Online: www.ombudsman.gov.rw

Direct complaints to authorities