KIGALI, Sept 17 (Reuters) – Rwanda’s economic expansion decelerated in the second quarter of 2024, primarily due to subdued performances in the industrial and services sectors, according to the national statistics office. The economy grew by 7.8% year-on-year during this period, a notable decline from the 10.2% growth recorded in the same quarter of the previous year. The statistics office highlighted that industrial output increased by 7%, a significant drop from the 13% growth seen in the second quarter of 2023. Similarly, the services sector expanded by 9%, down from 12% in the same period last year. In contrast, the agricultural sector showed resilience, growing by 8% compared to 4% in the previous year. Rwanda’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing, faces challenges as global economic uncertainties and domestic factors weigh on key sectors. Analysts suggest that targeted policy interventions may be necessary to sustain growth momentum in the coming quarters.