KIGALI | — President Paul Kagame has appointed Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as Rwanda’s new Prime Minister, replacing Dr. Edouard Ngirente, who has served in the role since 2017. The appointment, confirmed by a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, marks a transition in the country’s senior executive leadership. Dr. Ngirente’s departure comes after eight years at the helm of government coordination. 

In a message posted on social media, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and reflected on his tenure as one marked by “growth, guidance, and purpose.” 

His exit follows a period in which the Rwandan government pursued various reforms in health, education, infrastructure, and economic development, under a centralized model of governance led by the presidency.

Profile: Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva

Dr. Nsengiyumva brings to the role a background in economics, public policy, and regional affairs. He has previously held senior advisory positions within government, with a focus on economic planning and regional integration.

Nsengiyumva holds a PhD in economics from the University of Leicester, a master’s in economic policy and management from the University of Nairobi and a bachelor of commerce from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

He previously served as permanent secretary in the education and trade and industry ministries. “Mr. President, I wish to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity you gave me to serve my country,” Ngirente wrote.

However, in 2008, the new premier was arrested on charges of corruption.

According to the then police spokesman Emmanuel Kabanda, an employee of the Central Bank identified as Evariste Gasirabo reportedly connived with Nsengiyumva to demand for a Rwf 3.5m ‘cut’ (bribe) from businessman Moses Byaruhanga.

“I fully embrace the responsibility entrusted to me and remain committed to advancing our national priorities with integrity and purpose,” he said.

His appointment is expected to ensure continuity in policy implementation while also supporting government efforts to respond to evolving domestic and regional challenges.

Additional Appointments

In a separate communiqué dated July 18, 2025, President Kagame appointed Ms. Alice Uwase, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), to a key national position.

The appointment, made under Article 112 of the Constitution, was announced by the outgoing Prime Minister.

Uwase’s leadership at RMB has been associated with reforms in Rwanda’s extractives sector, particularly in improving governance, compliance, and export competitiveness. Her elevation signals an ongoing emphasis on technocratic leadership within the public sector.

The office of the Prime Minister in Rwanda plays a coordinating role in government operations but functions within a highly centralized executive system.

The appointment of a new Prime Minister comes at a time when the government is midway through implementation of Vision 2050, its long-term development framework.

By ChimpReports