KIGALI, Rwanda – Rwanda has officially submitted a bid to host United Nations agencies that are currently being considered for relocation, in a move that signals Kigali’s ambition to position itself as a leading African hub for global governance and multilateral operations.
In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente outlined Rwanda’s proposal, offering to accommodate relocating agencies with ready infrastructure, legal protections, and a long-term commitment to supporting the UN’s evolving operational needs.
“Rwanda has positioned itself as a competitive destination for multilateral institutions, offering a cost-effective, secure, reliable and enabling environment for their operations,” the May 15 statement reads.
The offer comes as part of the UN80 initiative, under which the global body is reviewing the viability of relocating some agencies from expensive duty stations to more strategically located and cost-effective environments.
The aim is to streamline operations and improve delivery amid tightening budgets and increasing global demands.
Ngirente cited Rwanda’s political stability, efficient institutions, and strong regional air connectivity as critical assets.
He emphasized that Kigali is ready to host a permanent UN campus and would provide tax exemptions, office facilities, and diplomatic privileges in line with international standards.
“Kigali’s location provides direct air connectivity to key regional and global hubs. Our strong record of political stability, institutional efficiency and safety ensures continuity of mission and staff well-being,” Ngirente noted.
The Rwandan government also extended an invitation to a technical UN mission to assess infrastructure readiness and engage in further discussions.
The visit, Ngirente said, would provide “a first-hand review of Rwanda’s offer” and help align it with the UN’s logistical and operational requirements.
Rwanda’s pitch comes as several African cities seek to expand their role in hosting multilateral institutions.
Nairobi, already home to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and UN-Habitat, is set to host three additional UN offices by 2026, including UNICEF, UNFPA, and UN Women.
The increased competition reflects a growing recognition among African nations of the strategic and diplomatic value of hosting international organizations.
Should Kigali’s proposal succeed, it could significantly boost Rwanda’s visibility and influence in global diplomacy, while potentially easing the UN’s operational burden in high-cost locations.
