Rwanda’s Youth Called to Lead Anti-Corruption Fight

As Rwanda joined the rest of the world to commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day, the Office of the Ombudsman, together with other national institutions, called on young people to take a central role in combating corruption.

The call came at the conclusion of the national Anti-Corruption Week, which began on December 3, 2025, focusing primarily on instilling ethical values and empowering young people to boldly say “NO” to corruption.

Despite Rwanda’s continued progress and global recognition as a leading nation in the fight against corruption, many young people say more work remains to be done.

Aline Mutesi, a student at the University of Rwanda, Huye Campus, shared her experience: “We appreciate the progress Rwanda has made, but there are still places where you can be asked for something before receiving a service. If we do not speak up, corruption will not disappear completely.”

For Nsengiyumva Cedric, corruption is particularly harmful to young people seeking employment. “Sometimes opportunities go to people who have connections, not necessarily those with the right skills. This discourages the youth who are trying to build a better future.”

Another young woman, Iradukunda Yvette, noted that corruption has taken on more discreet forms: “Corruption often hides behind gifts, favors, or so-called ‘assistance.’ Without vigilance, these behaviors can easily widen the corruption gap.”

Parents interviewed echoed similar concerns.

Vestine Mukandoli said some public servants still expect “gifts” before providing services, a behavior she described as corruption disguised under a different name.

Jean Damascène Havugimana urged that anti-corruption awareness should also target senior officials and civil servants: “Young people are trying, but they also need good examples from leaders.”

Ombudsman Madeleine Nirere: “Hiding Corruption Is Also a Crime”

Speaking at the national event held at Serena Hotel, Ombudsman Madeleine Nirere delivered a powerful message to the youth. She stressed that defeating corruption requires courage, honesty, and a strong ethical backbone. “Do not conceal people who give or receive bribes. Concealing corruption is itself a crime. The Rwanda we want in 2050 is a country completely free of corruption, and that future depends on you, the youth.”

Nirere emphasized that young people, who make up nearly 60% of Rwanda’s population, possess the energy, intellect, and innovation needed to transform attitudes toward corruption. She encouraged them to uphold integrity, patriotism, and accountability.

At the provincial level, celebrations continued in Rubavu District, where the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, joined thousands of young people under the theme: ” Partnering with youth to fight corruption and build tomorrow’s honest leaders”

He called on the youth to take a firm stand: “Let us build a safe Rwanda free from corruption and focused on the future of our children. Say NO to corruption wherever it appears.”

Ombudsman Nirere, also present in Rubavu, highlighted the unique abilities of young people: “You have fresh ideas, strength, and technological skills. Real change begins with you.”

According to the latest Rwanda Bribery Index published by Transparency International Rwanda, corruption decreased from 18.5% to 14.6%. While the results are encouraging, authorities insist more effort is needed to achieve a corruption-free nation.

Key Institutions Join Forces in Anti-Corruption Efforts

Discussions held at Serena Hotel brought together various agencies, including the Office of the Ombudsman, the National Prosecution Authority, RDB, and APNAC Rwanda.

Minister in the Presidency, Judith Uwizeye, described corruption as a dangerous epidemic: “Corruption is like an iceberg the visible part is small, but the hidden part is much larger. That is why we must thoroughly investigate and eliminate all its roots.”