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The Unemployment Rate, as defined by World Development Indicators, is the percentage of the labor force that is without work but is actively seeking employment and available to start work.
Key Takeaways
Rwanda's unemployment rate has shown a sharp rise over the decades, reflecting shifts in economic conditions, demographic trends, and global events. From a low 0.3% in 1991, the unemployment rate climbed steadily, reaching 0.9% of the labor force by 2002. This period saw Rwanda's recovery from the 1994 genocide, with a focus on rebuilding the economy and reintegrating displaced populations into the labor market. However, employment opportunities remained limited, especially in urban areas.
A significant surge occurred between 2014 and 2017, as the unemployment rate jumped from 1.2% to 11.9%. This increase aligns with rapid urbanization and a growing youth population entering the labor force, coupled with challenges in creating sufficient jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated unemployment, peaking at 15.8% in 2021, as lockdowns disrupted key sectors like tourism and services. By 2022, unemployment slightly declined to 15.1%, indicating gradual recovery efforts and economic resilience.
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