Rwanda Launches RS 560:2023 – A New Standard for Gender Equality and Accountability

In a major step toward institutionalizing gender equality across Rwanda, key stakeholders gathered this week to reflect on progress and officially embrace RS 560:2023, the country’s newly developed gender equality standard. The event was organized by the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) in collaboration with the Gender Monitoring Office, UNDP Rwanda, and other partners. It was chaired by Hon. Minister Consolee Uwimana, and brought together representatives from both the public and private sectors who are actively implementing gender-responsive standards.

“RS 560 is more than a certification; it is a strategic tool to advance inclusive and equitable development by embedding gender equality into institutional culture and practice,” said Fatmata L. Sesay, Resident Representative of UNDP Rwanda.

The dialogue, which precedes a High-Level Policy Meeting, highlighted the evolution of the Gender Equality Seal (GES) program and Rwanda’s ambition to shift from voluntary certification to a national accountability system.

“We are transitioning from a voluntary certification model to a scalable national accountability system. This is how we make gender equality a core development principle, not just a program,” emphasized Nadine Umutoni, Chief Gender Monitor at the Gender Monitoring Office.

RS 560:2023 is now being recognized as a continental first—the first national standard on gender equality in Africa. It is designed to help institutions incorporate gender equality into their policies, organizational structures, and workplace cultures, ensuring that inclusion becomes a measurable and enforceable part of institutional practice.

“These standards are more than technical tools; they are drivers of sustainable change, guiding institutions to promote equal access, opportunity, and resources for both women and men,” said Minister Consolee Uwimana during her keynote remarks.

According to Raymond Murenzi, Director General of RSB, the certification carries both social and economic benefits. “Certification against management systems and social responsibility standards such as RS 560 is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for entering global markets. Once acquired, it becomes a competitive advantage,” he explained.

The conversation also touched on RS 560’s potential to enhance credibility, open doors to international partnerships, and reinforce Rwanda’s inclusive governance commitments.

In her closing remarks, Chief Gender Monitor Nadine Umutoni called for moving beyond symbolic commitments:
“We mark a milestone in Rwanda’s gender journey, celebrating the Gender Equality Seal and embracing RS 560:2023. Let’s move from commitment to accountability. Equality is not a privilege, but a guarantee.”

With the launch of RS 560:2023, Rwanda positions itself as a leader in gender-responsive governance, and stakeholders now look ahead to a high-level dialogue focused on scaling implementation across sectors. As the nation continues its push for inclusive development, RS 560 is poised to become a cornerstone of institutional accountability and sustainability.