Women own 55% of Rwanda’s individual businesses - report

A recent report from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for 2025 reveals a significant milestone in the nation's economic landscape: women are at the helm of the majority of individual businesses. The data indicates that women own 55 percent of all sole proprietorships, a testament to their growing influence and participation in entrepreneurship.

This statistic, which translates to 58,042 businesses owned by women, underscores Rwanda's commitment to gender equality and economic empowerment. The RDB's findings highlight a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit among Rwandan women, who are actively contributing to the country's economic growth and development.

Such figures are particularly noteworthy in the context of global trends, where female entrepreneurship is increasingly recognized as a crucial driver of economic progress. Rwanda's consistent efforts to create an enabling environment for women in business are clearly yielding positive results, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic economy.

The report serves as a powerful indicator of the progress Rwanda has made in empowering its female citizens. It reflects a society where women are not only participants but also leaders in the business sector, driving innovation and creating opportunities.