Rwanda inflation surges to 8.9%, raising cost-of-living pressures

• January inflation hits 8.9%, above target band
• Food, health and energy costs drive surge

KIGALI, RWANDA – Rwanda’s annual inflation rose to 8.9% in January, breaching the government’s 2–8% target band and intensifying pressure on households already grappling with rising living costs.

The increase was largely driven by higher prices in key consumer categories. Food and non-alcoholic beverages rose by 5.3%, alcoholic beverages, tobacco and narcotics by 15.6%, while housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels increased by 10.5%. Health prices surged by 71.1%, transport climbed 8.6%, and restaurants and hotels rose 19.2%.