Rwanda has improved its score on the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) to 58 percent, up from 57 percent in 2024, according to data released by Transparency Rwanda during a media briefing held in Kigali.
The CPI, which measures perceived levels of public-sector corruption worldwide, continues to place Rwanda among the best-performing countries in Africa. Globally, Denmark, Finland, and Singapore topped the 2025 rankings, while Somalia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) ranked among the lowest.
Transparency Rwanda Executive Director and member of the Transparency International Board, Apollinaire Mupiganyi, said the improvement reflects Rwanda’s sustained commitment to good governance and accountability.
“This progress, though gradual, shows that Rwanda’s investments in strong institutions, political will, and transparent public service delivery are producing results. However, we are still striving to do better,” Mupiganyi told journalists.
Why Rwanda Outperforms the Region
Explaining why Rwanda continues to perform better than some neighboring countries, such as Burundi, which scored 17 percent Mupiganyi pointed to strict anti-corruption laws and the effective use of technology.
“Rwanda has strong and effective mechanisms to fight corruption. When an individual is involved in corrupt practices, it is recorded. Before that person is transferred or hired by another institution, their record is checked. This creates accountability and deterrence,” he said.
Transparency Rwanda noted that digital government services, performance-based management systems, and strong oversight institutions have significantly reduced corruption risks, particularly within public administration.
Boost to Investor Confidence
The improved CPI score is expected to further strengthen business and investor confidence, as corruption perception remains a key factor in investment decisions.
Chief Ombudsman Hon. Madeleine Nirere emphasized that a low-corruption environment reduces business costs and enhances predictability.
“A low-corruption environment reduces the cost of doing business and gives investors confidence in the fairness and predictability of the system. Rwanda also benefits from strong political will and a culture of accountability at all levels, including villages, where citizens are sensitized about corruption,” she said.
She added that the country aims to improve its score from 58 to 60 percent as part of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, and urged journalists to place greater emphasis on investigative journalism, particularly involving public servants.
No Room for Complacency
Despite the positive scores, Chief Ombudsman Nirere cautioned against complacency, stressing that corruption risks still exist and require constant vigilance.
“A score of 58 percent is progress, but it also reminds us that the fight against corruption is ongoing. Strengthening whistleblower protection, enhancing transparency in public procurement, and promoting integrity in the private sector remain critical,” Chief Ombudsman Nirere.
Chief Ombudsman Nirere reiterated that sustained vigilance from institutions, citizens, the private sector, and the media is essential to consolidate gains.
Rwanda has also consistently ranked highly on ease-of-doing-business reforms, supported by simplified business registration, transparent tax administration, and reduced bureaucratic barriers, factors that complement its anti-corruption efforts.
As Rwanda advances its long-term development agenda, stakeholders agree that continued commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in building public trust, attracting quality investment, and ensuring inclusive economic growth.