Dismissal
Being fired or let go
Your employer cannot fire you without a valid reason. Rwanda's Labour Code protects every worker against unfair dismissal.
What the law says
- Valid reasons for dismissal include serious misconduct, poor performance after written warnings, and genuine redundancy.
- Your employer must give you written notice before dismissing you. Notice periods: under 1 year of service → 15 days; 1 to 5 years → 1 month; over 5 years → 3 months.
- Dismissal during sick leave or maternity leave is prohibited by law.
- If you are wrongfully dismissed, you can claim between 1 and 6 months' salary in compensation.
- Always ask for a written termination letter — you have the right to one.
What you can do
- Ask your employer for a written explanation of your dismissal.
- Contact your district Labour Inspector if you believe the dismissal was unfair.
- File a complaint with MIFOTRA or the Labour Court if the dispute is not resolved.