Category: Uncategorized

  • Four new faces join President Kagame’s newly unveiled Cabinet #rwanda #RwOT

    This follows the appointment of Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as the new Prime Minister, which triggered the formation of a new Cabinet in accordance with the Rwandan Constitution.

    Dominique Habimana has been appointed as the Minister of Local Government, while Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye takes on the role of Minister of Environment. Both are joining the Cabinet for the first time.

    On the side of state ministers, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye has been named State Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye becomes the State Minister for Infrastructure.

    Another notable appointment in the new list of state officers unveiled on Thursday night is that of Nick Barigye as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, a role previously held by the Prime Minister-designate.

    The newly announced Cabinet comprises 21 ministers and 10 state ministers, with the majority of them having served under outgoing Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente and retaining their positions.

    Full List of Appointments

    I. Ministers

    1. Judith Uwizeye — Minister in the Office of the President

    2. Inès Mpambara — Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister

    3. Yusuf Murangwa — Minister of Finance and Economic Planning

    4. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe — Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

    5. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja — Minister of Justice / Attorney General

    6. Juvenal Marizamunda — Minister of Defense

    7. Consolée Uwimana — Minister of Gender and Family Promotion

    8. Dr. Vincent Biruta — Minister of Interior

    9. Dominique Habimana — Minister of Local Government

    10. Dr. Jimmy Gasore — Minister of Infrastructure

    11. Paula Ingabire — Minister of ICT and Innovation

    12. Joseph Nsengimana — Minister of Education

    13. Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye — Minister of Environment

    14. Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe — Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources

    15. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana — Minister of Health

    16. Prudence Sebahizi — Minister of Trade and Industry

    17. Nelly Mukazayire — Minister of Sports

    18. Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana — Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement

    19. Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka — Minister of Public Service and Labor

    20. Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira — Minister in Charge of Emergency Management

    21. Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumutwishima — Minister of Youth and Arts

    II. Ministers of State

    1. Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe — Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation

    2. Mutesi Linda Rusagara — Minister of State for Resource Mobilisation and Public Investment

    3. Godfrey Kabera — Minister of State in Charge of the National Treasury

    4. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye — Minister of State for Infrastructure

    5. Marie Solange Kayisire — Minister of State for Local Government

    6. Claudette Irere — Minister of State for Education

    7. Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye — Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources

    8. Dr. Yvan Butera — Minister of State for Health

    9. Sandrine Umutoni — Minister of State for Youth and Arts

    10. Rwego Ngarambe — Minister of State for Sports

    III. Other Senior Officials

    1. Jean-Guy Afrika — Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), with the rank of Minister

    2. Juliana Muganza — Deputy CEO of RDB, with the rank of Minister of State

    3. Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard — Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), with the rank of Minister

    4. Nick Barigye — Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR).

    Dominique Habimana has been appointed Minister of Local Government.

    Bernadette Arakwiriye has been appointed Minister of Environment.

    Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye has been appointed State Minister in charge of Infrastructure.

    Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye has been appointed State Minister in charge of Agriculture and Livestock.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/four-new-faces-join-president-kagame-s-newly-unveiled-cabinet

  • From grass to growth, Juncao technology supports Rwanda’s school feeding program #rwanda #RwOT

    School feeding has become an important part of Rwanda’s education policy, aimed at reducing child hunger during school hours and expanding access to learning, especially for children from low-income families.

    At Busasamana Technical School, physics teacher and school feeding coordinator Alice Allouette Marie Munyurabanga sees mushroom farming as a promising way to enhance meal quality for students. Mushroom cultivation presents new opportunities to improve the meals we provide, particularly for those whose families struggle financially, she said.

    “The school feeding program faces a real challenge when some parents cannot afford to contribute on time,” she said. “Mushroom cultivation is potentially a good option to fill the gap. But we do not have enough knowledge and skills on the techniques needed to cultivate mushrooms.”

    She made the remarks in an interview with Xinhua during a recent Juncao technology training session at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center (C-RATDC) in Huye District in the country’s Southern Province.

    Munyurabanga was among 57 participants from five African countries attending the Second African Training Workshop on Applications of Juncao Technology, held from July 16 to July 23.

    The workshop, co-hosted by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in China, focused on the use of Juncao technology for mushroom farming, livestock feed and environmental protection. It brought together agricultural officers, educators and development experts from across Africa.

    Earlier in May, Munyurabanga joined a study tour to China, where she was introduced to Juncao technology for the first time. The experience, she said, sparked a new interest in applying the innovation at her school.

    “By chance, I was selected to take part in this latest capacity-building training,” she said. “I see it as a great opportunity for my school, and for the country, to deepen our understanding and improve our skills in mushroom cultivation. With the knowledge I have gained, I will be able to help produce enough mushrooms for our students when I return to school.”

    Juncao, a hybrid grass developed in the 1980s by Lin Zhanxi, a professor of Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, is a multifunctional agricultural technology. It is mainly used as a substrate for growing edible and medicinal mushrooms but also serves as livestock feed and aids in ecological restoration. The innovation has been introduced in over 100 countries, including Rwanda.

    The Juncao technology project was launched at the UN headquarters in 2017 and supported by the UN Peace and Development Trust Fund.

    Munyurabanga said that mushrooms were chosen among various vegetables because they are both nutritious and cost-effective. Currently, her school includes mushrooms in students’ meals at least twice a week.

    Her school also has access to a large piece of land for agricultural activities. After returning from China, she introduced Juncao technology to her colleagues, who welcomed the idea. The school has since decided to plant Juncao grass to begin producing its own mushroom substrate.

    “My hope is for our school to become a model in mushroom cultivation and substrate production,” she said. “Other schools could learn from us, not only how to grow mushrooms, but also how to prepare the substrate, how to cook the mushrooms, and how to incorporate them into school meals.”

    Having gained insights into Rwanda’s school feeding program, Chen Xiaobin, an expert at the C-RATDC, said he hopes to organize future training workshops specifically for schools, aiming to better support the national feeding strategy through the application of Juncao technology.

    Trainees observe mushroom samples at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Huye District, Rwanda, on July 17, 2025.

    Chinese Juncao expert Chen Xiaobin (1st R) explains knowledge related to Juncao technology to trainees at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Huye District, Rwanda, on July 17, 2025.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/from-grass-to-growth-juncao-technology-supports-rwanda-s-school-feeding-program

  • DRC, Rwanda and UNHCR adopt new road map for refugee repatriation #rwanda #RwOT

    The agreement was reached during a high-level tripartite ministerial meeting held in Addis Ababa on 24 July 2025. Charles Karamba, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, represented Rwanda at the meeting.

    The meeting, convened under the framework of the 2010 Tripartite Agreements on Voluntary Repatriation, comes amid renewed diplomatic momentum following the Washington Peace Agreement signed between DRC and Rwanda in June, and the Doha Declaration of Principles between the DRC government and the AFC/M23 rebel group signed earlier this month.

    In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the parties said the new Tripartite Technical Working Group Road Map (2025—2026) outlines key operational steps, responsibilities, and timelines to guide the repatriation and reintegration process.

    The new plan aims to provide lasting solutions for thousands of Congolese refugees in Rwanda and Rwandan refugees in DRC, and is seen as a critical component of post-conflict recovery and regional stability in the Great Lakes region.

    President Paul Kagame has in the past maintained that Rwanda currently hosts more than 100,000 Congolese refugees affected by the conflict in eastern DRC, which is attributed to the marginalisation and persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities.

    Following the Thursday meeting, the parties reaffirmed the right of all refugees to voluntarily return to their country of origin in safety and dignity, without constraints. The plan also calls for improved coordination between the two governments and UNHCR, the provision of accurate information to refugees, and the establishment of conditions that enable sustainable reintegration.

    Among the immediate actions agreed upon is the expedited repatriation of 600 Rwandan refugees currently hosted at a transit centre in Goma, DRC. This will be carried out with support from UNHCR and in coordination with relevant local authorities.

    The road map also places emphasis on inclusive reintegration planning, ensuring returnees have access to housing, education, livelihoods, health services, and civil documentation. Additionally, it calls for engagement with donors and development partners to support the long-term recovery efforts.

    Meanwhile, the three parties also agreed to hold regular technical working group meetings to monitor implementation of the road map and plan to reconvene at the ministerial level in six months to assess progress and offer strategic guidance.

    Charles Karamba (right), Rwanda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, signed the Joint Communiqué of the Tripartite High-Level Meeting on behalf of the Republic of Rwanda.

    President Paul Kagame has in the past maintained that Rwanda currently hosts more than 100,000 Congolese refugees affected by the conflict in eastern DRC, which is attributed to the marginalisation and persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/drc-rwanda-and-unhcr-adopt-new-road-map-for-refugee-repatriation

  • African farmers embrace China’s Juncao technology to boost mushroom production, livelihoods #rwanda #RwOT

    Developed in China, Juncao — a hybrid grass — is a multifunctional agricultural resource initially introduced for mushroom cultivation. It has since proven effective in addressing food security, income generation, and environmental challenges.

    Innocent Shayamano, chief agriculture extension specialist and project coordinator from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, said the technology is playing a transformative role in Zimbabwe’s rural communities.

    “This technology can transform lives. It aligns with our national development agenda, particularly Vision 2030, which aims to improve rural household incomes,” Shayamano told Xinhua on the sidelines of a workshop on Juncao technology in Huye District, southern Rwanda.

    The July 16-23 workshop at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center, co-hosted by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University of China, focuses on the use of Juncao technology for mushroom farming, livestock feed and environmental protection.

    It brought together agricultural officers, educators and development experts from across Africa.

    Shayamano, attending the workshop for the second time, was joined by five Zimbabwean farmers seeking to deepen their understanding of Juncao-based mushroom farming.

    He noted that while Zimbabwean farmers have traditionally used cotton waste for mushroom cultivation, the rising cost and declining availability of cotton have made it less sustainable.

    In contrast, Juncao grass, with a yield of over 200 tonnes per hectare, provides a cost-effective alternative.

    “With climate change affecting livestock feed availability in dry regions, Juncao grass also offers a timely solution for fodder,” Shayamano said. “That’s why we are working to scale this technology across more farming communities.”

    He said that the Zimbabwean participants would return home as lead trainers, tasked with sharing their knowledge and skills and encouraging wider adoption of the technology.

    Zimbabwe and Rwanda are among several African countries integrating Juncao into their agricultural practices.

    Abbas Ahmad Umar, a Nigerian farmer attending the workshop for the first time, described Juncao as a “grass of grace” due to its versatility.

    “We use it to grow mushrooms, feed livestock, and even prevent soil erosion. When I return to Nigeria, I hope to raise awareness about Juncao, especially among youth and women,” he said.

    Umar expressed confidence that Juncao’s multifunctionality could help alleviate poverty and support sustainable farming across Africa.

    “Mushroom farming has many benefits, and I plan to apply what I’ve learned and eventually train others in my country,” he added.

    Trainees observe mushroom samples at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in Huye District, Rwanda, on July 17, 2025.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/african-farmers-embrace-china-s-juncao-technology-to-boost-mushroom-production

  • President Kagame holds consultative meeting with incoming PM Nsengiyumva #rwanda #RwOT

    The meeting follows Dr. Nsengiyumva’s appointment on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, replacing Edouard Ngirente, who had served as Rwanda’s Prime Minister since 2017.

    The appointment of Dr. Nsengiyumva is expected to trigger the formation of a new Cabinet, per the provisions of Rwanda’s Constitution.

    A seasoned technocrat with a PhD in economics, Dr. Nsengiyumva previously served as Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda. His professional journey has also included roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry and in the Ministry of Education.

    Reacting to his appointment on Wednesday, Dr. Nsengiyumva expressed gratitude to President Kagame and pledged to lead with humility and commitment.

    'Thank you, Your Excellency Paul Kagame, for your trust and confidence once again. I am deeply honoured, humbled, and grateful,' he wrote on X.

    'I pledge to serve you and Rwanda with humility and dedication under your leadership and guidance. I fully embrace the responsibility entrusted to me and remain committed to advancing our national priorities with integrity and purpose.'

    As the seventh Prime Minister of Rwanda since 1994, Nsengiyumva takes office at a critical juncture, with just four years remaining to implement the country’s Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), a five-year development plan launched in 2024.

    The NST2 outlines ambitious goals across key sectors, including job creation, economic growth, education, healthcare, and service delivery. Among the headline targets are the creation of 1.25 million productive jobs by 2029, doubling private investment from $2.2 billion to $4.6 billion, and raising exports from $3.5 billion to $7.3 billion.

    In agriculture, output is projected to increase by over 50%, driven by an 85% expansion in irrigated land, improved access to fertilisers and seeds, and modernised livestock production. The sector is expected to grow by at least 6% annually through a market-oriented approach.

    Education reforms will see pre-primary school enrolment rise from 35% to 65%, while efforts to boost science and technology learning will be scaled up. At least 500,000 people are set to be trained in digital skills, and vocational training will be tailored to match labour market demands.

    Healthcare access and quality are also set for transformation. The number of registered health workers is expected to quadruple, with targeted improvements in maternal and child health services. The government aims to reduce child stunting from 33% to 15%.

    By 2029, every household, school, and health facility in Rwanda is expected to have access to electricity and clean water. Meanwhile, a digital national ID and fully digitised government services are planned to streamline public service delivery.

    Tourism revenue is projected to double, with Rwanda positioning itself as a leading destination for international conferences. On the global stage, the government will focus on foreign investment, increased trade, and deeper engagement with the Rwandan diaspora in national development efforts.

    As Prime Minister, Dr. Nsengiyumva will be at the centre of driving this wide-ranging national agenda. His leadership is expected to focus on accelerating progress where needed, reinforcing delivery mechanisms, and ensuring Rwanda stays on track to achieve its development goals by 2029.

    President Paul Kagame on Thursday met with Prime Minister-designate Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva for consultations and to align on key national priorities, according to a statement from the Office of the President.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-holds-consultative-meeting-with-incoming-pm-nsengiyumva

  • Key responsibilities awaiting Rwanda’s new Prime Minister #rwanda #RwOT

    Dr. Nsengiyumva, who was previously the Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Leicester, with research focusing on financial development, government ownership of banks, and foreign capital inflows.

    Additionally, he earned an MA in Economic Policy and Management from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Commerce from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

    According to Article 119 of the Constitution, the new Prime Minister’s responsibilities include leading government operations based on the overarching guidance provided by the President of the Republic, overseeing the implementation of laws, and preparing the government’s action program in consultation with other Cabinet members.

    He is also required to present the government program to Parliament within 30 days of assuming office. Additionally, he assigns responsibilities to Ministers, State Ministers, and other government officials; convenes Cabinet meetings; and prepares the agenda for such meetings in consultation with fellow Cabinet members. The agenda must be submitted to the President and other Cabinet members at least three days before the meeting—except for urgent matters handled in extraordinary sessions.

    The Prime Minister has the authority to chair Cabinet meetings, although the President presides when in attendance. He also issues orders determining the objectives, duties, and organizational structures of government institutions under his authority.

    The Prime Minister may also issue implementing orders for laws within his remit, and sign orders concerning the appointment and dismissal of senior officials, including the Director of the Prime Minister’s Office, Executive Secretaries of national commissions, Advisors and Heads of Units within the Prime Minister’s Office, and other senior government officials whose appointments are not governed by other procedures.

    This power extends to senior and managerial positions in the Parliament, Supreme Court, Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the Prosecutor General, ministries, and other government institutions.

    It also includes national-level prosecutors, heads of higher-level prosecution offices, and public servants appointed at the same level as the aforementioned officials, as well as others specified by law.

    The Prime Minister also co-signs laws passed by Parliament, presidential orders, and other legal instruments initiated by the Government.

    Focus on NST 2 Targets

    Beyond general constitutional responsibilities, Dr. Nsengiyumva’s administration faces the crucial task of delivering on the remaining goals of Rwanda’s second National Strategy for Transformation (NST 2), which has four years left.

    NST 2 is built on five main pillars: job creation, boosting exports, improving education quality, combating malnutrition and stunting, and enhancing service delivery.

    Under this strategy, agriculture is expected to grow at 6% annually, driven by market-oriented production. Agricultural output is projected to increase by over 50% through the expansion of irrigated land to 85%, and increased use of fertilizers and improved seeds. Livestock farming is also to be modernized.

    The plan also aims to create 1.25 million new income-generating jobs, with at least 250,000 created each year.

    Private investment is expected to double from $2.2 billion to $4.6 billion by 2029. Exports are projected to rise from $3.5 billion to $7.3 billion. The 'Made in Rwanda' initiative is set to be strengthened to boost local production and employment, particularly through agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors.

    In education, enrollment in pre-primary schools is to increase from 35% to 65%, reinforcing the commitment to early childhood education. More students are expected to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), supported by access to resources and equipment. Additionally, 500,000 people are to be trained in digital skills, and vocational model schools will be prioritized to meet labor market demands.

    In the health sector, service delivery will be improved, with the number of healthcare workers expected to quadruple. Special attention will be given to services for pregnant women and children. The goal is to reduce child stunting from 33% to 15%, and by 2029, every household, school, and hospital should have access to electricity and clean water.

    In tourism, revenues are projected to double, driven by Rwanda’s ambition to become a top destination for international conferences and related activities.

    A digital national ID will be introduced to simplify access to public services, and by 2029, all government services are expected to be delivered digitally.

    On the international front, the government will focus on enhancing foreign trade and attracting investment to boost economic development. Rwandans living abroad will also be increasingly engaged in sustainable development initiatives, while peace and security will continue to be prioritized.

    To achieve all of this in the remaining timeframe, the government under Prime Minister Nsengiyumva is anticipated to implement strong and urgent strategies to accelerate progress in lagging areas and ensure that all targets are met by 2029.

    Dr. Nsengiyumva, who was previously the Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Leicester.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/key-responsibilities-awaiting-rwanda-s-new-prime-minister

  • Frw13 billion factory opens in Bugesera to boost local construction industry #rwanda #RwOT

    The plant, owned by HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, will produce more than 1,800 tonnes of construction and sanitary hardware annually. Its product range includes plumbing and electrical fittings, water system pipes, LED lighting, Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) wall panels, and glass shower enclosures essential for interior finishing works.

    Located in the rapidly developing Bugesera Industrial Park, the factory occupies a one-hectare plot, with 6,000 square metres of built-up space, half of which is currently in use. It has a daily production capacity of up to five tonnes and is expected to significantly reduce Rwanda’s reliance on imported construction materials.

    Speaking during a pre-inauguration event on Wednesday, July 23, Jean Bosco Mungwarareba, the founder and managing director of HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, said his 25 years of experience importing construction materials inspired him to invest in local production.

    The move aligns with the government’s 'Made in Rwanda' initiative aimed at promoting local manufacturing and reducing the trade deficit.

    Mungwarareba said he aims to expand the factory’s capacity so that, in the near future, it can locally produce at least 30 percent of the construction materials he used to import.

    'Eventually, we want to start exporting these high-quality products and help bring foreign currency into the country rather than lose it through imports.'

    Currently, the factory employs 22 permanent staff, with more casual workers expected as production scales up.

    The Private Sector Federation (PSF) has praised the initiative, noting the strategic importance of local manufacturing. Callixte Kanamugire, Chief Advocacy Officer at PSF, said the factory will not only help cut Rwanda’s import bill but also support job creation and export growth.

    'These are globally competitive products. With the government’s emphasis on quality assurance, local factories like this one are well-positioned to serve both domestic and regional markets,' Kanamugire said, adding that such ventures are key to addressing Rwanda’s trade deficit.

    The Bugesera Industrial Park, which spans 335.67 hectares, is being developed in three phases as part of a joint venture between the Government of Rwanda and ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP).

    Phase I covers 91.63 hectares and already hosts 18 factories—12 operational and six under construction. Phase II, extending over 99.45 hectares, is set for completion by the end of this year, while Phase III (144.58 hectares) is scheduled to be finalised by 2027.

    Once fully developed, the industrial zone is expected to contribute $1.2 billion to Rwanda’s manufacturing sector, create 45,000 jobs, and attract over $400 million in foreign direct investment.

    Damascene Munyaneza, Director of Administration and Finance at HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, applauded government efforts in creating enabling environments for industrial growth.

    'The establishment of special economic zones is accelerating the implementation of Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2),' he said.

    The establishment of the new factory marks a significant step towards greater self-reliance in the construction sector and positions Rwanda as a rising industrial hub in the region.

    Various officials were given a tour showcasing the operations and products of the HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd factory.

    Jean Bosco Mungwarareba, the Director of HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, said the factory will help reduce dependence on imported construction materials.

    The factory will bolster Rwanda’s construction sector with a new supply of locally manufactured finishing materials.

    These wall panels are used for interior wall finishing.

    HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd is equipped with modern machinery capable of producing more than five tonnes of construction materials daily.

    Currently, the factory employs 22 permanent staff, with more casual workers expected as production scales up.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/frw13-billion-factory-opens-in-bugesera-to-boost-local-construction-industry

  • Minister Mugenzi highlights regional integration and cooperation as key pillars for sustainable development #rwanda #RwOT

    He made the remarks at the East African Local Government Forum (EALGF) Strategic Planning Meeting, held in Kigali from July 22 to 24, 2025.

    The gathering brought together senior government officials, governors, local government associations, and development partners from across the East African Community (EAC), under the theme: 'Strengthening the Role of County and Local Governments in Regional Integration and Cross-Border Cooperation.'

    Highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to regional integration, Mugenzi noted initiatives like cross-border markets and infrastructure improvements designed to enhance citizens’ quality of life.

    'Regional integration and cooperation are essential for sustainable development, economic growth, and regional stability,' he stated, underscoring the need for empowered local governments to drive these efforts.

    He stressed that 'Local governments play a crucial role in governance, poverty reduction, and regional collaboration,' urging coordinated partnerships to tackle challenges like youth unemployment, civic engagement, and climate change.

    The Minister pointed to the Mpazi Rehousing Model in Kigali as a successful example of local governments addressing housing and socioeconomic issues through community collaboration.

    He called for the EALGF to serve as a platform for dialogue and innovation, saying, 'This forum should be the right platform to challenge us on how we could foster collaboration and innovation among regional Local Government leaders and associations, address shared challenges, and enhance sustainable development for our citizens.'

    Mugenzi encouraged participants to focus on key priorities, including strategies to address regional challenges, empower local government associations, and set standards for effective service delivery.

    Ben Kumumanya, Chairperson of the East African Local Government Forum (EALGF) and Uganda’s Permanent Secretary for Local Government, called for robust strategies to position local governments as key drivers of regional development.

    'Our ultimate goal is to position counties and local governments as key drivers of regional development, increased visibility, and active contributors to the East African Community’s integration objectives,' he emphasized.

    Kumumanya also urged delegates to focus on creating actionable strategies aligned with EAC priorities, including economic development, infrastructure, health, education, and environmental sustainability.

    Established in 2011, the EALGF facilitates engagement between local governments, promoting decentralization, local democracy, and cross-border trade to drive economic integration at the grassroots level.

    Rwanda’s Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, has emphasized that empowering local governments and strengthening collaboration across borders are critical for achieving inclusive, long-term development in East Africa.

    Ben Kumumanya, Chairperson of the East African Local Government Forum (EALGF) and Uganda’s Permanent Secretary for Local Government, called for robust strategies to position local governments as key drivers of regional development.

    The forum brought together senior government officials, governors, local government associations, and development partners from across the East African Community (EAC).

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/minister-mugenzi-highlights-regional-integration-and-cooperation-as-key-pillars

  • CSP Sengabo Hillary reappointed as spokesperson for Rwanda Correctional Service #rwanda #RwOT

    His reappointment follows a recent promotion from the rank of Senior Superintendent to Chief Superintendent.

    CSP Sengabo previously served in the same role until 2020, when he was succeeded by SSP Pelly Gakwaya Uwera.

    He originally assumed the spokesperson role in August 2014 and worked closely with the media for six years.

    During his tenure, he played a key role in safeguarding the institution’s image and ensuring timely access to information related to RCS operations.

    In 2020, CSP Sengabo stepped down to pursue further studies at the Rwanda National Police College in Musanze, where he earned a Master’s degree in Good Governance and Conflict Transformation.

    Following his studies, he went on to lead several correctional facilities, including the Muhanga and Huye prisons in the Southern Province.

    More recently, he returned from an international assignment and was immediately appointed to resume his former duties, succeeding CSP Therese Kubwimana, who has retired.

    Speaking to IGIHE, CSP Sengabo expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve again in this capacity.

    'I am honored to take on this responsibility once more. As officers, we are trained to be disciplined and to serve wherever we are assigned. I will fulfill these duties diligently,' he said.

    He also reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining strong collaboration with the media and to ensuring that the public continues to receive accurate and timely information regarding the programs and activities of the Rwanda Correctional Service.

    CSP Sengabo Hillary has been reappointed as spokesperson for Rwanda Correctional Service

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/csp-sengabo-hillary-reappointed-as-spokesperson-for-rwanda-correctional-service

  • 'A chapter I’ll always carry with pride': Outgoing PM Ngirente reflects on 8 years in office #rwanda #RwOT

    Dr. Ngirente will be succeeded by Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who was appointed by President Kagame on Wednesday.

    Shortly after the announcement of the new Prime Minister’s appointment, Dr. Ngirente posted a message on X describing his journey as 'deeply enriching.'

    'I am so grateful to H.E. Paul Kagame for the honour of serving as the Prime Minister of our beloved Rwanda for the last eight years. This journey has been deeply enriching, filled with growth, guidance, and purpose,” he wrote.

    “Mr. President, I wish to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity you gave me to serve my country, and for being such an inspiring mentor throughout this journey. It’s a chapter I’ll always carry with pride,” he added.

    Dr. Ngirente was appointed Prime Minister in August 2017, succeeding Anastase Murekezi, who had served in the role since July 2014.

    During his tenure, Dr. Ngirente oversaw key government reforms, including socio-economic recovery efforts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the implementation of strategic development initiatives aligned with Vision 2050.

    His successor, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, previously served as Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda and brings extensive expertise in economic policy, regulation, and development.

    Beyond his central banking role, Dr. Nsengiyumva has held various positions in both Rwandan and UK government institutions. His experience includes serving as Senior Economic Advisor at the UK Office of Rail and Road, Economist at the UK Department for Work and Pensions, and Permanent Secretary in Rwanda’s Ministries of Education and Trade and Industry.

    He holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Leicester, with research focusing on financial development, government ownership of banks, and foreign capital inflows. Additionally, he earned an MA in Economic Policy and Management from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Commerce from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

    Dr. Ngirente will be succeeded by Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who was appointed by President Kagame on Wednesday.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/a-chapter-i-ll-always-carry-with-pride-outgoing-pm-ngirente-reflects-on-8-years