Rwanda's life expectancy is now 69.6 years, up from 51.2 years in 2002, according to data from the 2022 fifth Census of Population and Housing. This puts Rwanda ahead of its peers in East and Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding high income), according to the World Bank's 2020 figures.
East Africans have a life expectancy of just over 60 years, with Tanzanians ranking second after Rwanda at 66 years, Kenya and Uganda at 63 years, Burundi at 61 years and the Democratic Republic of Congo at 60 years.
South Sudan has the lowest life expectancy at 55 years. The World Bank in 2020 estimated Rwanda's life expectancy at 67 years.
The data were released during the 18th National Dialogue of Rwanda, Umushyikirano, recently held in person after the suspension due to Covid-19 restrictions on public gatherings.
The event chaired by President Paul Kagame brings together citizens, local government officials, cabinet and parliament representatives, private sector leaders, and members of the religious and diplomatic communities.
The annual dialogue, held since 2003, provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss the most pressing issues facing the country.
