Unveiling Challenges in the Implementation of Gender Equality in Rwanda: Experiences of Central Actors

This article examines the experiences of central actors involved in planning, implementing, and evaluating gender equality programmes in Rwanda. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 38 informants across five districts, the study reveals persistent economic, institutional, and social constraints that limit the translation of Rwanda’s progressive gender policies into transformative outcomes. Theoretically grounded at the nexus of gender equality theory and policy implementation scholarship, the article highlights key challenges including inadequate funding, limited staffing and training, weak policy communication, and insufficient engagement with local cultural contexts. The findings highlight the need for stronger institutional support, sustained resource allocation, clearer mandates, and improved coordination and dissemination mechanisms to enhance the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of gender equality initiatives.