Rwandan President Paul Kagame has announced a series of key government appointments this Monday, December 1, marking a targeted reshuffle aimed at strengthening Rwanda’s governance and strategic sectors.
In the changes, Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe has been appointed Senior Defence and Security Advisor in the Office of the President, returning the celebrated military strategist to a central advisory role in national security. Kabarebe, a former Minister of Defence and long-serving senior officer in the Rwanda Defence Force, remains one of Rwanda’s most experienced security figures.
At the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Kagame named Telesphore Ndabamenye as the new Minister, replacing the outgoing leadership as the government continues prioritising food security, innovation, and agricultural modernization. Dr Solange Uwituze has been appointed Minister of State in the same ministry, bringing with her expertise in agricultural development and higher education.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also saw changes, with Usta Kayitesi appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, a position that places her at the centre of Rwanda’s regional and international diplomacy.
In another significant appointment, veteran diplomat Charles Murigande has been named Senator, returning to a high-level role in Rwanda’s legislative structure. Murigande previously served as a minister in several portfolios, including foreign affairs and education, and is recognized for his long-standing contributions to public service.
The latest appointments signal Kagame’s intention to reinforce key sectors—security, agriculture, and foreign affairs—while drawing on seasoned technocrats and respected national figures.
