Kagame Reappoints Former World Bank Advisor as Prime Minister

On Tuesday, August 13, 2023, President Paul Kagame reaffirmed his confidence in Edouard Ngirente by reappointing him as the Prime Minister of Rwanda.

This decision signifies a steady continuity in Rwanda’s leadership, as Ngirente, now 52, resumes his role for a second term. He is set to be sworn in shortly, solidifying his position as the 6th Prime Minister in the nation’s history since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Ngirente first assumed this role in 2017, succeeding Anastase Murekezi.

This reappointment follows President Kagame’s recent reelection for another five-year term, which was confirmed after he was sworn in on Sunday, August 11, 2024. With the appointment of the Prime Minister, the formation of the new government is expected to follow soon.

Profile of Edouard Ngirente: An Exemplary Economist and Public Servant

Edouard Ngirente is a highly regarded economist with an extensive career that bridges both national and international arenas. Prior to his initial appointment as Prime Minister, Ngirente was deeply involved with the World Bank Group in Washington D.C. There, he held the pivotal role of Advisor to the Executive Director, overseeing development initiatives across 20 African nations. His expertise and dedication were further recognized in 2017 when he was elevated to the position of Senior Advisor.

Ngirente’s academic achievements are equally noteworthy. He earned a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the esteemed Catholic University of Louvain (UCL) in Belgium. Beyond his doctorate, he holds two advanced degrees: one in Financial Risk Management from Facultés Universitaires Saint-Louis in Brussels, and another in Agricultural Economics from UCL. His academic journey began at the National University of Rwanda (now University of Rwanda), where he completed his undergraduate studies and later contributed as a faculty member.

Born and raised in Gakenke District in Rwanda’s Northern Province, Ngirente’s early education was rooted in his home region, which laid a strong foundation for his subsequent academic and professional endeavors. Ngirente is a family man, married with children.

Mandate of the Office of the Prime Minister

The Office of the Prime Minister in Rwanda is a cornerstone of the government, tasked with the crucial responsibility of orchestrating government actions and ensuring the seamless implementation of national policies and programs. This office plays a vital role in coordinating national development strategies, monitoring and evaluating policy execution, and maintaining the efficiency of governmental institutions.

As Prime Minister, Ngirente will once again be at the helm of Rwanda’s development agenda, guiding the nation’s economic growth and ensuring that government policies are effectively implemented to foster prosperity and stability.

ND