The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) was created in October 2005 by virtue of Organic Law No 10/2005 out of the former Department of Statistics. NISR started operations practically in mid of 2006 and full year operations in 2007. It is the primary statistical agency that has the mandate to produce general purpose statistics.

The NISR is also the National Coordinator of the National Statistical System. The data users and the general public are the ultimate clients of the Statistical System. Aside from the data users, there are other key players in the Statistical System– the respondents, the data producers, the dissemination channels and the development partners.
 
Mission
To assume the leading role in improving capacity to use evidence- based information for decision-making by coordinating national effort to collect and archive reliable data, to analyze, document and disseminate data within an integrated and sustainable framework.
 
Vision
To develop and sustain a culture of excellence in statistical production and management of national development.