Labour Law Fragmentation and Workers' Rights Maldistribution in Rwanda's Informal Economy: A Survey Analysis

Rwanda's informal economy is a significant part of its labour market, yet it faces challenges in enforcing labour laws and protecting workers' rights. A structured questionnaire was administered to 300 randomly selected informally employed individuals in Rwandan cities, focusing on their knowledge of labour laws and experiences with enforcement. Approximately 65% of respondents reported not being aware of the specific labour laws applicable to their work, indicating a significant gap in legal literacy within the informal economy. The survey results highlight a need for more comprehensive education programmes on labour rights and improved enforcement mechanisms to ensure fair treatment of workers in Rwanda’s informal sector. Rwanda should prioritise developing and disseminating clear, accessible labour laws that are tailored to the needs of informally employed individuals. Additionally, strengthening legal awareness initiatives is essential to bridge the knowledge gap identified in this study.