World Bank Funds Rwanda
The World back last year earmarked millions of US Dollars to facilitate Rwanda’s Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS). The money was allocated for budget support, ICT development through the E-Rwanda program, the Lake Kivu Methane gas project, the fight against HIV/Aids and rehabilitation of the Kigali Ruhengeri road for the promotion of gorilla tourism in Rwanda as well. Rwanda is preparing its Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy to be finalized this year. Based on the EDPRS, the next Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) 2008-2012 will be prepared jointly with DFID and will be presented to the World Bank of Directors in fiscal 2008. This Interim Strategy Note (ISN) will cover the period 2007-2008 and will there fore bridge the gap between the two full CASs to enable the alignment of Bank assistance with the EDPRS.
In the last decade, the Rwandan government has embarked on a comprehensive liberation of its economy, initiated legislation reform, promoted trade and pursued regional integration. The current assistance strategy supported the Rwandese government in undertaking key reforms to promote progress in meeting targets in the social sectors and an improved economic environment. This will create great opportunity for the great gorilla region for further development.