Rwanda

Rwanda has been a signatory to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety since 2004. Following the ratification of the Protocol, the country has made significant strides towards establishing a comprehensive system for regulating biotechnology products. The overarching purpose of this regulatory effort is to safeguard biological diversity and human health.To achieve this objective, the National Biosafety Framework (NBF) has been developed. The NBF is designed to facilitate the establishment and enhancement of national capacities necessary to effectively assess and manage potential risks associated with the development, handling, transport, use, and transfer of Living Modified Organisms (LMOs).

Regulatory framework
Rwanda has established a robust legal framework to regulate Living Modified Organisms, centered on the Law No. 025/2024 of 16/02/2024 governing biosafety. The purpose of this law is to regulate Living Modified Organisms (LMOs) and prevent potential adverse effects on biodiversity and human health. 
(1) A National Biosafety Committee was formally established by Prime Minister's Order No. 006/03 of 18/02/2025. This Committee, composed of technical members from various institutions, assists the Competent Authority by reviewing risk assessment reports submitted by applicants for LMO-related activities.
(2) A Ministerial Order on the application of LMO-related activities was enacted, providing the necessary guidance, instructions, and procedures for applicants wishing to conduct activities involving LMOs.
(3) Guidelines and application forms are available for facilitating applicants aiming to use LMOs;

The Competent authority is currently the authority in charge of environmental management, which is Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA). The competent authority is in charge of monitoring all LMOs related activities and enforce the Law governing biosafety