Rwanda, a small but rapidly developing nation in East-Central Africa, has gained global recognition for its efficient governance model. Unlike many countries where government officials enjoy extensive privileges, ministers in Rwanda do not receive official cars, residences, or security escorts.
According to Professor Kingsley Moghalu, President of the African School of Governance (ASG), Rwanda has implemented a zero fleet policy, meaning ministers must purchase their own vehicles using their transport allowance. Similarly, they must rent and pay for their residences using their accommodation stipends.
Sharing his observations on X (formerly Twitter), Moghalu emphasized how Rwanda’s policies prioritize reducing the cost of governance, contrasting it with other African nations where government spending on officials’ benefits is significantly higher.
“In Rwanda, government ministers don’t have official cars, residences, or security guards. You buy your own vehicle and finance it with your transport allowance. Rent your own residence with your accommodation allowance. No pomp and pageantry. #CostofGovernance,” Moghalu stated.
Despite being a low-income nation with an economy heavily reliant on agriculture, Rwanda is one of the fastest-growing economies in Central Africa. The country has successfully implemented policies aimed at fiscal discipline and efficient governance, making it a model for other African nations.
Located in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, Rwanda is bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Due to its high elevation and hilly landscape, it is often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Since the end of the civil war in 1994, Rwanda has been governed by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) under the leadership of President Paul Kagame. Though the RPF is primarily led by the Tutsi ethnic group, it has gained support across different communities due to its emphasis on stability and economic progress.
