Rwanda’s Ministry of Justice reports that between 2016 and 2023, crimes such as embezzlement, awarding contracts without competitive bidding, and corruption caused the state losses totaling 10.4 billion Rwandan francs (Rwf), of which 2.2 billion Rwf has been recovered.
The ministry said embezzlement accounted for more than 7.4 billion Rwf in losses, irregular contract awards cost over 1.8 billion Rwf, and corruption-related crimes cost 186 million Rwf.
From 2013 to 2025, the government has recovered 15.4 billion Rwf, with the largest recovery of 3.3 billion Rwf in 2021–2022. Meanwhile, 16.6 billion Rwf remain under litigation, and 8.4 billion Rwf are considered irrecoverable.
Hon. Valens Muhakwa, chair of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, said errors in public financial management can lead to crimes, resulting in officials being prosecuted.
“In reports we receive, we see actions that may involve mistakes that could lead to embezzlement,” Muhakwa said. “That is why some cases are forwarded to the prosecution to follow up on those suspected of committing these offenses.”
In the 2024–2025 judicial year, economic crime cases continued to rise. Attorney General Angelique Habyarimana said the prosecution received 1,252 cases, concluding 1,153, or 92% of all cases. Out of 620 trials, prosecutors won 521.
Marie Immaculée Ingabire, director of the Rwanda chapter of the International Anti-Corruption and Justice Organization, stressed that embezzlers should not be tolerated.
“If errors are left unchecked, it undermines public trust,” she said. “Officials should ensure accountability and uphold their moral obligation to citizens.”
Spéciose Kabibi, a state litigation officer, noted challenges in recovering assets, as some are registered under other names or pledged as bank collateral. However, he said the government remains committed to pursuing all public fund embezzlers.
“Our message is clear: wherever misappropriated funds exist, we will reach you,” Kabibi said. “The best approach is to come forward and repay voluntarily or agree on an installment plan.”
