As stipulated by Article 72 of the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, both chambers of the Parliament commenced the second ordinary session of the year 2024-2025.
The Right Honorable Dr. Kalinda François Xavier, President of the Senate of Rwanda, announced that during the second session, the Senate will fulfill its constitutional mandate by engaging in various activities. This includes monitoring the application of the fundamental principles outlined in Article 10 of the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda.
Addressing the Plenary Sitting, the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Rt. Hon. Kazarwa Gertrude pointed out that the Chamber of Deputies will consider the relevance of various draft laws, and vote laws, including the law amending the law determining the state finances for the fiscal year 2024-2025 and draft organic law determining the functioning of the Senate. MPs will also exercise oversight over Government activities.
She also noted that the Chamber of Deputies will receive guests and attend international meetings as they exercise their role of parliamentary diplomacy.
The Chamber of Deputies adopts the relevance of the draft law amending the law determining the state finances
On February 5, 2025 the Plenary Sitting of the Chamber of Deputies adopted the relevance of the draft law amending the law determining the state finances for the fiscal year 2024/2025.
Addressing the Plenary Sitting, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa announced an increase in revenue and spending for the 2024/25 fiscal year by Frw 126.3 billion, raising the total from Frw 5,690.1 billion to Frw 5,816.4 billion.
The adjustments reflect changes in the resource envelope and aim to enhance resource allocation, support emerging national priorities, and improve public service efficiency.
“Rwandan economic growth remains robust amid global uncertainties, including the effects of climate change, global inflation, and geopolitical tensions. This is evidenced by strong growth in the first three quarters of 2024. The Government will continue to maintain macroeconomic stability and promote inclusive growth by investing in key areas such as agriculture, climate change, infrastructure, education, healthcare and social protection,” Minister Murangwa stated.
Key Changes in the 2024/25 Revised Budget:
Overall, resources will increase by Frw 126.3 billion, from Frw 5,690.1 billion to Frw 5,816.4 billion. While tax revenue forecasts have been adjusted downward by Frw 20 billion, other revenue sources—including increased privatization proceeds and external concessional loans will help offset this decrease.
On the expenditure side, the revision includes adjustments in both recurrent and capital expenditures. The development budget will rise by Frw 80.6 billion, from Frw 2,007.3 billion to Frw 2,087.9 billion. This change affects both foreign and domestically financed capital expenditures allocated under different sectors. Meanwhile, the recurrent budget will increase by Frw 45.7 billion, from Frw 3,682.9 billion to Frw 3,728.5 billion, primarily due to an increase in pension contributions.
The revised budget for the 2024/25 fiscal year is part of the updated medium-term macroeconomic framework. The Government will continue to closely monitor all components of economic performance that may affect the implementation of the revised budget and will take necessary actions to ensure its full execution while maintaining macroeconomic stability.
The draft law will be assessed by the standing committee before being passed by the Plenary Assembly. (End)