The matter was recently raised in the Senate, where the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) addressed concerns regarding residents of islands such as Nkombo, Gihaya, Ishywa, and Bugaruraâ€"some of whom are the third generation born on Rwandan territory but lack official identification.
'Some of them have married Rwandans in unrecognised unions, and their children were born here, yet they are still not officially recognised as citizens,' said Marie Solange Kayisire, Minister of State in MINALOC.
She confirmed that the government has collected all required documentation and that those who meet legal requirements will be granted citizenship under the existing nationality law.
Priority will be given to individuals married to Rwandan citizens and those eligible under the 2022 Ministerial Order on nationality.
Rwanda has 148 islands in various lakes, of which only 15 are currently inhabited. Some islands are being depopulated due to safety concerns or inaccessibility, with communities from areas like Ruzi, Muzira, and Tereri being relocated to the mainland to access better public services.
Kayisire added that beyond legal recognition, the government is investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to improve living conditions for island communities.
The Senate Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights recently toured several islands as part of a broader oversight mission linked to Rwanda's NST2 development strategy (2024â€"2029).
'Citizenship is not just a legal matter; it's a door to opportunity, dignity, and inclusion,' said Senator Adrie Umuhire, who chairs the committee.
Rwanda offers multiple paths to citizenship, including by birth, marriage, or long-term residence. Applicants are required to provide documentation such as birth certificates and residency records. The law also allows humanitarian exemptions, with some application fees waived for vulnerable individuals.
IGIHE
