Kigali, Rwanda — In a significant move to strengthen government efficiency and drive innovation, President Paul Kagame on Thursday, September 18, 2025, announced a major cabinet reshuffle, naming new leaders across several key ministries and state agencies. Among the most notable appointments is Yves Iradukunda, who was named Minister of State in the Ministry of ICT and Innovation.
The announcement, made through a statement by the Office of the Prime Minister, signals a strategic push to align Rwanda’s digital transformation goals with capable, experienced leadership. Iradukunda previously served as the Permanent Secretary in the same ministry and is widely recognized for his role in advancing Rwanda's tech-driven development agenda. His appointment reflects continuity and a focus on sustaining momentum in the ICT sector, a critical pillar of Rwanda’s Vision 2050 strategy.
Beyond ICT, the President made several high-profile changes in the executive branch. Dieudonne Gatete was appointed Director of Cabinet in the Office of the President, with Viviane Mukakizima stepping in as Deputy Director of Cabinet. Ambassador Claude Nikobisanzwe was named Chief of Protocol, reinforcing Rwanda’s diplomatic leadership as it deepens regional and international engagements.
In the Office of the Prime Minister, Leonard Minega Rugwabiza was appointed Head of the Delivery Unit, tasked with tracking and ensuring the implementation of key government programs. Ambassador Moses Rugema was proposed as High Commissioner to Nigeria, strengthening Rwanda’s diplomatic presence in West Africa.
Several new Permanent Secretaries were also named to bolster administrative performance. Canoth Manishimwe was appointed to the Ministry of Infrastructure, Clement Kabiligi to the Ministry of Public Service and Labour, and Eraste Rurangwa to the Ministry of ICT and Innovation. These appointments are aimed at improving coordination across strategic sectors and enhancing service delivery.
Changes also extended to Rwanda’s regulatory and oversight institutions. Thaddée Tuyizere was appointed Vice Chairperson of the National Commission for Human Rights. Jimmy Christian Byukusenge was named Director General of the Rwanda Public Procurement Authority, while Col. Claude Nkusi was appointed Deputy Director General of the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority. These leadership transitions are expected to strengthen transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance.
According to the official statement, all appointments take immediate effect. The reshuffle demonstrates President Kagame’s continued commitment to responsive governance, merit-based leadership, and institutional reform. It reflects an approach that prioritizes performance, strategic alignment, and the capacity to deliver on Rwanda’s national development goals.
As Yves Iradukunda assumes his new role, stakeholders will be closely watching how the Ministry of ICT and Innovation advances key initiatives in digital infrastructure, skills development, and public-private partnerships. The broader reshuffle sets the tone for Rwanda’s next phase of transformation, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s leading models of governance and innovation.