The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (Nisr) is conducting two surveys to establish the number of entities that are ‘practicing’ an economic activity in the country. 

The 2014 business census and integrated business enterprise survey (IBES) are aimed at determining the level of economic activities, employment in private firms and size of enterprises operating in the country, Yusuf Murangwa, the director general, has said.

"The two surveys will provide information on the characteristics of Rwandan economy, which will be useful in policy-making,” he said.

Murangwa said the results from the surveys will also help in making of data-based plans for coming years, noting that information aids good planning and sustainable development of the country.

It is targeting all businesses, including the retailers, hotels, restaurants, market vendors, financial institutions, co-operatives, companies and industries. Faith-based organisations and religious institutions are also to be investigated, as well as government institutions and other affiliated organs, and nongovernmental (local and international) organisations and their affiliated projects.

The two surveys will end January next year and are being carried out by Nisr in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Public Service and Labour, Ministry of Youth and ICT, Rwanda Development Bank, Private Sector Federation, National Bank of Rwanda and Rwanda Co-operative Agency.

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