• Kagame appoints Yves Iradukunda as new ICT and Innovation Minister

• Iradukunda to drive Rwanda’s digital push, rural-urban tech equity

• Ex-permanent secretary brings tech, policy, and leadership experience

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has appointed Yves Iradukunda as the new Minister of State for Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) and Innovation, a move that signals a continued focus on digital transformation.

Iradukunda was named to the post in a cabinet reshuffle on Thursday, Sept. 18, succeeding Paula Ingabire, who previously served as the full minister for the strategic portfolio.

Iradukunda’s appointment caps a career marked by a strong involvement in modernizing government and promoting digital entrepreneurship. As the former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, he oversaw strategic projects to strengthen the country's connectivity, develop digital skills, and foster local technology solutions.

Before entering public service, he distinguished himself in the development and philanthropic sectors. He served as the country director for Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropy in Rwanda and as the global operations director at MASS Design Group, an international social design and engineering organization.

Iradukunda holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and computer science from Oklahoma Christian University and an MBA from the African Leadership University School of Business. He also holds a diploma in public service innovation from the Cambridge Judge Business School. This academic background, combined with his field experience, underpins his vision of inclusive digital technology serving development.

A long-time advocate for youth training and mentorship, he is also the co-founder and former leader of Emerging Leaders and Entrepreneurs of Rwanda, an organization that promotes leadership and entrepreneurship.

His appointment comes as Kigali seeks to accelerate its digital transition and solidify its status as a regional technology hub. The new minister will play a key role in speeding up ongoing projects to close the digital divide between urban and rural areas, stimulate local innovation and startup growth, and strengthen cybersecurity and digital sovereignty. His mandate also includes helping to develop the skills of young people to meet the growing demand for talent in the sector.

Following his appointment, Iradukunda said he was "fully committed to giving my all to shape a better future for Rwandans through transformative technologies."

Samira Njoya