President Paul Kagame has appointed Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as the new Prime Minister of Rwanda, succeeding Dr. Édouard Ngirente, who held the position since August 2017. Dr. Nsengiyumva brings a wealth of experience in economic policy, governance, and public administration. Prior to his appointment, he served as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Tanzania, a position he assumed on February 25, 2025. He previously held several high-level government and international roles, showcasing a distinguished career in public service and economic development.
Extensive Experience in Public Service and Economic Affairs
Dr. Nsengiyumva has a notable track record in leadership positions, including:
- Chief Economic Adviser to the British Government’s Office of Rail and Road in the United Kingdom (from April 2016)
- Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Rwanda
- Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education (March 2008 – November 2008)
- Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry (June 2005 – March 2008)
- Programme Officer and Researcher at Refugee Action (June 2009 – December 2013)
Academic Background
Dr. Nsengiyumva holds advanced degrees in economics and strategic management, including:
- PhD in Economics – University of Leicester, United Kingdom
- Master’s Degree in Economics – University of Leicester (2011–2015)
- Master’s in Economic Strategy and Management – University of Nairobi
- Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration – Catholic University of Eastern Africa
What Happens When a Prime Minister Is Replaced in Rwanda?
According to the Rwandan Constitution, when the Prime Minister resigns or is replaced, the entire Government is considered to have resigned. The President accepts the Government’s resignation, and the outgoing administration is responsible only for day-to-day operations until a new Government is sworn in. The new Prime Minister and cabinet must undergo a swearing-in ceremony to formally assume their roles.
Prime Ministers of Rwanda Since 1994
Rwanda has had a series of Prime Ministers since the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The timeline is as follows:
- Faustin Twagiramungu – July 19, 1994 to August 31, 1995
- Pierre-Célestin Rwigema – August 31, 1995 to March 8, 2000
- Bernard Makuza – March 8, 2000 to October 7, 2011
- Pierre-Damien Habumuremyi – October 7, 2011 to July 23, 2014
- Anastase Murekezi – July 23, 2014 to August 30, 2017
- Dr. Édouard Ngirente – August 30, 2017 to July 23, 2025
- Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva – Appointed on July 23, 2025
