Rwanda labour market attractive - study

Rwanda is more attractive for workers from the East African Community (EAC) compared to other member states on the bloc, a new study has shown. According to the study, conducted by M.A Consulting Group, Rwanda has the highest labour market efficiency. The survey was carried out in 2009 to assess the impact of the EAC Common Market protocol on Rwanda’s Economy in a comparative way. The study stated that Rwanda has created a conducive environment for professional labour from the region. Speaking at validation meeting of the final report, Monique Mukaruliza, the Minister of EAC, said that the findings in the report will enable Rwanda to develop a strategy and position to guide specific negotiations on the market protocol. Mukaruliza underscored the need to sensitise the domestic labour market to be prepared for competition from the other partner states. “Workers in the services sector should become innovative and emulate some of the better skills from the other EAC partner countries,” Mukaruliza noted. The study highlighted the impact of the Common Market Protocol on other sectors such as free movement of goods, services, capital among others. The report further mentioned that EAC trade regime has a net positive welfare effect on the Rwandan economy. Francois Kanimba, the Minister of Trade and Industry, said that more input is needed. “Emphasis should be put on diversifying production and export base and advocate for the free movement of the goods with positive effect,” he said. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of EAC Affairs, Robert Ssali, commended the findings of the study saying that the report would help the country strategise its position in implementing the market protocol. “The country has benefited a lot from the common market because trade creation has increased, consumers are happier than before,” he said. Ssali underscored the need to boost Rwandan industries by branding and marketing, among other strategies, so as to compete favourably in the region. The Common Market Protocol was signed on 20 November 2009 by the EAC Heads of State. Ends

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Rwanda labour market attractive - study