Rwanda’s rapid economic growth and national development efforts have affected historically marginalized communities, particularly in terms of employment and livelihood opportunities, this development has sometimes led to job losses, displacement, and exclusion from key sectors of the economy due to lack of education needed to labor market. fortunately, the government of Rwanda informs the public that it is working hard to create opportunities to the illiterate Rwandans.
Rwanda’s focus on modernizing sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and urban development has led to both positive and negative outcomes. While these sectors have created jobs for many, they have also displaced traditional occupations held by marginalized communities. Historically, they were known as potters, hunters, and forest gatherers, but with Rwanda’s shift towards modernization and environmental protection, these jobs have become obsolete, With the influx of cheap, mass-produced goods, traditional pottery has lost its market, leading to a decline in demand for these artisanal skills
“We used to survive by making pottery; when we found markets for our pottery, we earned money. But now, we have nothing to work on. The only jobs left are carrying loads or other kinds of work that don’t lead anywhere. This causes many of our children to drop out of school, and some of them turn to bad habits like theft and prostitution. If we had work, it would help us improve our livelihoods” said Bujeni Xavier, a resident of Rubavu District.
Despite Rwanda’s commitment to inclusive development, they have faced limited access to education and vocational training, which has hampered their ability to compete for jobs in the modern economy, While the government has launched initiatives aimed at improving access to education, many of them remain disadvantaged due to historical discrimination and poverty.
“We don’t have jobs because the available ones often require educated people, and they usually ask for skills we don’t have. We are asking for support in receiving training for self-employment or being given skills that can help us compete in the job market,” said Nyiransabimana, a resident of Rubavu District.
There is hope that they will be supported
The Ministry of youth insists that it is supporting Rwandans by offering vocational training, entrepreneurship programs, and on-the-job learning to equip them with skills for self-employment and the job market. It is collaborating with local authorities to ensure inclusion, focusing on reducing unemployment and economic inequality among historically marginalized groups through national initiatives.
“We provide skills development for people who didn’t have the opportunity to attend school or those who dropped out before completing their studies. This is done through what we call short-term training. We also have a program called learning on the job, where individuals attend short-term courses while gaining practical experience. We are collaborating with district labor officers to ensure these programs, which aim to uplift Rwandans, also include historically marginalized people, especially the youth,” said Jean Pierre Habimana, Director in the Ministry of Youth, responsible for job creation.
The Rwandan government and its citizens can support the community of marginalized people by promoting inclusive policies and preserving their cultural heritage. In addition, Collaboration with NGOs and fostering awareness about their rights can further enhance their living conditions and integration into society.
