This snapshot, taken on 04/03/2010, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.
We're creating a single website for everything to do with BIS but, while we do that, you'll find information in three places. > Find what you're looking for
Country information on exporting strategic goods to Rwanda.
The UK has lifted its arms embargo on Rwanda, following the issuing of an amending UK Order which came into force on 12th December 2008. This follows the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1823 (2008).
Exporters should be aware that there is still an embargo in force in respect of military goods going to Rwanda where there is a clear risk of diversion to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
NOTE: This page outlines relevant information about arms embargoes only. See the link to other restrictions for more information about other potential sanctions.
Exporters can apply for an export control licence for their goods. Applications to supply arms to the Government of Rwanda, or to UN peace keeping forces operating there, would be considered by the Government on a case by case basis against the provisions of the Consolidated EU and National Arms Export Licensing Criteria. See more details about Licence Decision Making.
For more details about applications see the Licences page. All licence applications should be made via the SPIRE website.
Exporters can also make a rating request for clarification on whether their goods are licensable. More information is available about the Rating Enquiry Service.
In applying and using any licence, exporters should be aware of their responsibilities. More information is accessible on the Compliance and Enforcement pages.
Further information is available in the following Notice to Exporters:
You can view other notifications distributed in the ECO's Notices to Exporters.
Keep updated with the latest changes to Sanctions and Embargoes by Joining the ECO Mailing List.
The UN initially imposed an arms embargo on Rwanda by Resolution 918 in May 1994. This resolution was subsequently extended by UNSCR 997 in June 1995 and amended by UNSCR 1011 in August 1995. Resolution 1011 provided an exception for deliveries to UN peace keeping forces and to extend the embargo to include Burundi, Tanzania and the DRC if the arms and related materiel are for use in Rwanda.The UN has since reaffirmed and reviewed the embargo via Resolutions 1053 (April 1996) and 1161 (April 1998).
In March 2007, the UN Security Council issued Resolution 1749 which lifted the UN arms embargo on Rwandan non-state actors. The Resolution also emphasised the need for "States in the region to ensure that arms and related material delivered to them are not diverted to or used by illegal armed groups".
On 10 July 2008 the UN adopted Security Council Resolution 1823 lifting the arms embargo on Rwanda.
To access copies of any relevant UN Resolutions see the:
There are no EU Regulations or Common Positions relating to Rwanda.
To access copies of any relevant and latest updates to EU legislation see the:
The relevant statutory instruments implemented in UK law are:
See more information about the Orders made under the Export Control Act.
To access copies of any UK legislation see the:
Rwanda is not subject to further sanctions and embargoes.
Export Control Organisation
Created: 7 April 2009
