The results in context

The Netherlands continued to strengthen the rule of law in Rwanda, so that citizens are better able to access their rights through fair, efficient, impartial, independent and accountable institutions. Through the creation of a legal-aid phone-line, for example, 84,326 people have received improved information about their rights. Furthermore, the Netherlands contributed to improve the quality of the justice system by training judges, prosecutors and defence lawyers, for example.

In promoting human rights through the Human Rights Fund, among others, the Netherlands focused on the priority areas of supporting human rights defenders and promoting freedom of expression. The capacity of human rights defenders and journalists has been improved through training on digital safety and research skills in documenting human rights violations. Beneficiaries have been equipped with skills to produce evidence-based reports while safeguarding their own safety and this capacity building has indeed led to a number of interesting human rights reports. Freedom of expression was promoted by supporting a progressive and inclusive radio show, on which a particular societal issue is tackled and debated each month. As a result, more public debate has taken place between journalists, civil society representatives, government officials and citizens on the human rights situation in Rwanda and its development.

The results in context

In the water sector, the Netherlands has been supporting Rwanda in the introduction of integrated water resources management (IWRM) since 2015.

A technical assistance programme is working with the appropriate authorities on developing management plans for water resources, covering four catchment areas with a combined population of 4.2 million people. Some of the interventions identified in the plans are currently being implemented, such as erosion prevention measures.

In the middle of 2019, a second phase of support to IWRM began. In light of the decision to phase out bilateral development co-operation, the long-term sustainability of interventions has become significantly more important. This second phase therefore places the Government of Rwanda in the driving seat to a greater extent when it comes to rolling out IWRM in the country, as well as in strengthening a community-based approach to landscape restoration.

The results in context

The horticulture value chain development project constructed 10 demonstration plots at co-operatives to train smallholders in growing vegetables, such as French beans, broccoli and green peppers. The value chain project also approved 14 business cases and innovation projects for co-financing. This will help with the commercialisation and professionalization of the horticulture sector for trading and marketing products on local, regional and export markets.

A number of Rwandan vegetable exporting companies started to export products to the Netherlands through supply contracts with a large Dutch importer. These companies are being coached by the project.

The results in context

Following the decision in November 2018 to gradually and carefully phase out the bilateral development co-operation programme, an increased emphasis has been placed on strengthening economic ties by promoting sustainable bilateral trade and investment and Dutch private sector involvement. In 2019, there was increased interest from Dutch companies in partnering with Rwandan companies and jointly applying for Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) instruments with 50% own investment. Investments have been made in several agricultural sectors and the maritime logistic sector. Projects were also initiated to improve three commercial value chains (maize, tea and potatoes).