The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), in collaboration with the Gender Monitoring Office (GMO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Rwanda, hosted a High-Level Dialogue to launch and promote the nationwide adoption of the RS 560:2023 standard. Held at the RSB Conference Hall, the event marked a major step forward in Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to institutionalizing gender equality through certified, measurable standards.
Developed jointly by RSB, GMO, UNDP Rwanda, and the Private Sector Federation (PSF), RS 560:2023 builds on the achievements of the Gender Equality Seal Certification Programme. It provides a transformative framework for integrating gender equality into the core governance and operations of organizations across sectors. The standard also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), further embedding Rwanda’s development agenda within global priorities.
The dialogue brought together high-level representatives from public institutions, private enterprises, civil society, and development partners. Participants reflected on lessons learned from the Gender Equality Seal Programme and explored pathways for transitioning to the RS 560 certification, with a focus on implementation strategies, leadership engagement, and capacity building.
“Certification against management systems and social responsibility standards such as RS 560 is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for entering global markets,” said Murenzi Raymond, Director General of RSB. “Once acquired, it becomes a competitive advantage that opens doors to new opportunities. Improving enterprise competitiveness through standards is a strategic way to promote both economic growth and gender equality.”
Chief Gender Monitor Umutoni Gatsinzi Nadine commended the collaboration behind the development of the standard and Rwanda’s leadership in promoting gender equity: “Rwanda’s proactive approach through RS 560:2023 and the Gender Equality Seal Programme demonstrates the country’s dedication to creating inclusive and equitable workplaces,” she said.
From the private sector perspective, PSF Chairperson Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi emphasized that inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but also a smart economic strategy. “The RS 560 standard offers a measurable path for businesses to foster equitable workplaces, drive innovation, and build resilience. Today’s dialogue is a call to action for our members to embrace certification and lead by example,” she stated.
The event also highlighted Rwanda’s active role in promoting gender-responsive standards continentally through its leadership within the African Organization for Standardization (ARSO).
UNDP Rwanda Resident Representative Fatmata Sesay reinforced the value of the standard: “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.”
Participants reached a consensus on the need for sustained advocacy, institutional commitment, and resource mobilization to ensure successful implementation of RS 560:2023. They acknowledged that gender equality is foundational to building workplaces that enhance morale, creativity, and productivity, while aligning with the diverse needs of clients and stakeholders.
As Rwanda continues to lead by example on the African continent, the RS 560:2023 certification signals a new era where gender equality is not just a policy aspiration—but a lived, measurable, and accountable reality embedded within organizational framework
