Rwanda’s latest cabinet reshuffle has drawn significant public attention after President Paul Kagame introduced changes affecting several key government positions, including the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Infrastructure.
Among those leaving their posts are Prudence Sebahizi, who served as Minister of Trade and Industry, and Ambassador Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, who had been serving as State Minister in the Ministry of Infrastructure.
Shortly after the announcement, both officials publicly expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, highlighting their accomplishments and thanking the President for the trust placed in them.
Sebahizi, who had spent two years leading the Ministry of Trade and Industry, shared a message reflecting on his time in office and the progress achieved under his leadership.
“I enjoyed working alongside fellow ministers and the MINICOM team to promote industrial development, strengthen the private sector, advance digital trade and support regional integration. I am proud of what we achieved together,” he said.
His remarks emphasized teamwork and collaboration as the foundation of the ministry’s achievements. During his tenure, Rwanda continued efforts to expand industrial production, improve the business environment, encourage private sector participation and strengthen regional trade links.
Observers note that Sebahizi consistently advocated for policies aimed at increasing competitiveness, promoting innovation and creating new opportunities for businesses operating both within Rwanda and across regional markets.
He described the ministry’s achievements as an important contribution to Rwanda’s broader economic transformation agenda and expressed satisfaction with the progress made during his time in office.
Sebahizi was appointed Minister of Trade and Industry on August 16, 2024, replacing Dr. Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze following the formation of a new government after President Kagame began a new term.
Following his departure, he extended congratulations to his successor, Antoine Marie Kajangwe, who had previously served as Permanent Secretary in the same ministry.
Sebahizi expressed confidence that Kajangwe possesses the experience and leadership needed to build on existing achievements and continue advancing Rwanda’s trade and industrial development agenda.
Ambassador Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye also conveyed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the country in the infrastructure sector. Although his public reaction was less detailed, his message reflected gratitude for the confidence that had been entrusted to him during his period in office.
Political analysts view such transitions as part of Rwanda’s evolving governance model, where leadership changes are often presented as opportunities to inject fresh energy and perspectives into public institutions while maintaining continuity in national development programs.
The latest cabinet changes come at a time when Rwanda is accelerating investments in infrastructure, trade, industrialization and public sector reforms designed to improve service delivery and support long-term economic growth.
For many observers, the reactions of Sebahizi and Ambassador Uwihanganye demonstrate a commitment to public service that extends beyond holding office. Their messages focused not on personal disappointment but on appreciation, continuity and confidence in the officials chosen to take over their responsibilities.
As a new team assumes leadership roles within government, both men leave behind messages centered on gratitude, cooperation and optimism for Rwanda’s future development path.
