Former SNP Minister Questions Scottish Aid to Rwanda Amid Economic Growth

A former Scottish minister has suggested that Scotland should reconsider its financial contributions to Rwanda, arguing that the East African nation's robust economic growth makes it less of a priority for international development aid. Ben Macpherson, who previously served as the Scottish Government's international development minister, stated that it may be time to "start stepping down and winding up its activity in Rwanda."

Macpherson's comments came during a meeting of Holyrood's equalities, human rights and civil justice committee. He noted that Rwanda recorded a 9.4% increase in annual economic output last year, a figure significantly higher than Scotland's. The Scottish Government currently allocates approximately £16 million annually to international development and humanitarian response. Between 2008 and 2014, Scotland directly invested £13.4 million in Rwanda, with an additional £2.8 million committed for the past and current years.

Rwanda has experienced consistent high levels of GDP growth since the late 1990s. The country's tourism agency has also engaged in international marketing campaigns, with its logo appearing on sports club attire, including that of European and American teams like Aston Villa and Arsenal.

Macpherson, who served as international development minister from 2018 to 2020 and as tertiary education minister until recently, expressed his views that resources could be better focused on countries like Malawi and Zambia. He suggested that the Scottish Government's involvement in Rwanda should be phased out as current funding commitments conclude.

Opposition politicians have criticized the current allocation of funds. Craig Hoy, Scottish Conservative finance spokesman, stated that ministers should re-evaluate their priorities, especially given Scotland's own economic challenges. He argued that the money could be better utilized to support Scotland's domestic economy and frontline services, particularly in light of what he described as the current government's "high-tax agenda."

Simita Kumar, the current international development minister, indicated that she would consider Macpherson's point regarding Rwanda's economic growth. She stated that the suggestion would be taken away for consideration.