Responsible Business Conduct: Positive Impact of Dutch Private Sector Engagement in Rwanda

Dutch private sector engagement in Rwanda, as revealed by the Responsible Business Conduct(RBC) survey, has had a positive impact on the country’s economy and workforce. Seventeen Dutch organizations participating in the survey have collectively generated 4,529 jobs, with 56.6% held by men and 43.4% by women. These jobs are predominantly permanent, contributing to stability and sustainability for employees and their families. Employees receive competitive salaries, training, education, and various benefits, showcasing a commitment to personal development and adherence to Rwandan labor laws.

Gender and Equal Opportunities in the Business Environment

An essential aspect of Responsible Business Conduct is ensuring a fair and safe workplace with equal opportunities for all employees. There is still a gender difference in opportunities and challenges, particularly for women. This is reflected in the opportunities and challenges available in the job market and their current jobs (SDG 5, 2020).

Challenges:

Implementing Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) poses multifaceted challenges for companies internally as well as externally. These challenges include difficulties in prioritizing RBC aspects, the perceived high cost and time-intensive nature of implementation, skepticism about the tangible benefits to the companies, limited support for RBC initiatives, insufficient knowledge of RBC, and a lack of clarity regarding people’s expectations from the company in this regard. Addressing these challenges requires strategic planning, resource allocation, and fostering a better understanding of the benefits and expectations associated with RBC.

Read detailed recommendations from the survey, and further detailed information on responsible business conduct in Rwanda, in the report. Contact [email protected].

Download the report here:

“As long as we open new businesses, why not involve employees directly? It helps in keeping yourself motivated at all times, because you work for yourself rather than for someone else.”