Among the new appointees are Richard Nyirishema, Minister of Sports, who replaced Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, Prudence Sebahizi, Minister of Trade and Industry, who succeeded Prof. Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome; and Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka, Minister of Public Service and Labor, who took over from Prof. Jeannette Bayisenge.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Prudence Sebahizi, the newly appointed Minister of Trade and Industry, expressed his gratitude to the President for entrusting him with this role. He emphasized his commitment to driving positive changes within the Ministry.
"This Ministry oversees the industrial sector, which is crucial for the country's production, as well as trade, which ensures that our products reach the market. I plan to address any existing challenges within these sectors and ensure that the products reach the market efficiently," he stated.
Sebahizi also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration with various institutions and agencies that support the Ministry of Trade and Industry to enhance service delivery to the public.
Regarding the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), he noted that Rwanda needs to invest in building a strong private sector capable of meeting the demands of this large market.
"We are going to focus on what we can produce in Rwanda and ensure it is of high quality for the international market, while also encouraging Rwandans to contribute to increasing the country's output," he added.
Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka, the newly appointed Minister of Public Service and Labor, told IGIHE that she was at home when she received the news of her appointment, and it came as a complete surprise.
She expressed her dedication to serving the Rwandan people and contributing to their development.
"These are heavy responsibilities, but I am determined to fulfill them to the best of my ability. I am ready to work with everyone, exchange ideas, and understand the Ministry's operations and vision," she said.
Amb. Nkulikiyinka emphasized the need to focus on changing Rwandans' perceptions of work. "Based on my previous experience, the first priority is learning. There are things you learn in school, but there are also life lessons. Another important aspect is changing mindsets and valuing all types of work," she explained.
Prior to the ministerial appointment, Nkurikiyinka previously served as Rwanda's Ambassador to several countries, including Germany, Sweden and Denmark, and represented Rwanda in Poland, Romania, Liechtenstein, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Norway, Finland, and Iceland.
Meanwhile, the new Minister of Sports Richard Nyirishema underscored that he is set to prioritize collaboration and effective partnerships with various stakeholders.
"I am grateful for the trust the President has placed in me, and I am ready to contribute our efforts to advancing sports in collaboration with all stakeholders," he said.
He noted that specific areas needing attention and focus to promote sports development would be outlined after the handover process.
Nyirishema is well-known in Rwandan sports, having been a member of the Executive Committee of the Rwanda Basketball Federation.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/new-rwandan-ministers-speak-out-on-key-priorities
