Rwanda's new PM, Cabinet members sworn in

Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Friday presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed prime minister and Cabinet members at the Rwandan Parliament in the capital city, Kigali.

Addressing the new officials, Kagame emphasised the gravity and significance of public responsibility.

"Entrusting you with these responsibilities carries great weight," he said. "It is based on your capacity, knowledge, and willingness to fulfil them. However, how you carry out these duties- how much ownership and commitment you bring- must come from within you."

Kagame urged them to lead with purpose, accountability, and self-reflection, stressing that no external validation can replace personal dedication to national service.

The president called for a fundamental shift in mindset and leadership behaviour, saying that Rwanda cannot afford to remain anchored in outdated attitudes.

"We cannot remain the same Rwandans, the same Africans, as we were 100 years ago, or even 50 years ago," Kagame said. "We simply can't."

According to the Rwandan constitution, a new Cabinet must be formed within 15 days of a prime minister's appointment.

The ceremony took place two days after Kagame appointed Justin Nsengiyumva as prime minister, followed by a Cabinet reshuffle on Thursday evening that retained most existing members while introducing key changes.

Before the appointment, Nsengiyumva was the deputy governor of the National Bank of Rwanda.