About the Ministry
Through dynamic and effective diplomacy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation promotes and defends the interests of Rwanda and Rwandans at home and abroad, coordinate the country's foreign policy and contribute to a just, safe and progressive world.
Toll free:
2506 (local) / +250788125043 (international)
Email:
info@minaffet.gov.rw
P.O. Box:
179 Kigali - Rwanda
To elaborate strategies and programs, whose objectives are to implement, monitor and evaluate Rwanda’s foreign policy as well as to clearly articulate this policy both inside and outside the country.
A peaceful, prosperous and sovereign Rwanda that plays a leading role in regional, continental and international cooperation.
The Ministry is led by the Minister, Minister of State, the Permanent Secretary and other members of the senior management. You can find the Ministry's organisational chart here
To promote and defend Rwanda’s political, economic and social interests and core values.
To contribute to regional, continental and international peace, security and stability.
To advance regional continental interests, integration and Pan-Africanism.
To engage, serve and protect Rwandan communities abroad.
The Minister
Dr. Vincent Biruta
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Prior to his appointment in November 2019, Minister Biruta served as Minister of Environment from 2017, Minister of Natural Resources from 2014 and Minister of Education from 2011. He also held the position of President of the Rwandan Senate from 2003 to 2011.
He served as the President of the National Transition Assembly from January 2000 to August 2003, Minister of Public Works, Transport and Communication from 1999 to 2000 and Minister of Health from 1997 to 1999.
Minister Biruta is a qualified physician. He furthered his studies in Planning and Management of Health Services in Developing Countries at the Université libre de Bruxelles in Belgium. He is also a holder of a post-graduate diploma in Public Health and Nutrition from the Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium.
Minister of State
Gen. (Rtd.) Kabarebe James
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation
Gen. (Rtd.) Kabarebe James has been appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation since September 27, 2023.
He previously served in different positions, including but not limited to Minister of Defense, Senior Defense and Security Advisor to H.E. the President of the Republic of Rwanda, and Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defense Force.
Gen. (Rtd.) Kabarebe James holds a bachelor’s degree in Arts in Economics and Political Science from Makerere University.
Permanent Secretary
Mrs. Clementine Mukeka
Permanent Secretary
Mrs. Mukeka previously served as in-house Expert for trade and regional integration, and private sector development matters to USAID Rwanda.
She was the Economic and Commercial Specialist at the U.S Embassy in Rwanda, providing high-level expertise and advice in the economic arena, including working directly with the U.S. Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission, USAID staff, contacts in Washington, and senior visitors such as members of Congress and maintained a wide range of high-level contacts locally with bilateral and international organisations, corporations, and the Rwandan government.
Mrs. Clementine Mukeka holds a Master’s degree in Business Management from IDRAC Business school, France.