President Paul Kagame chaired a Cabinet meeting at Urugwiro Village on June 8, 2026, during which the Government of Rwanda approved a wide range of strategic policies, draft laws, international agreements, and key appointments aimed at advancing the country’s economic growth, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and public service delivery. The meeting highlighted Rwanda’s continued focus on strengthening economic resilience, embracing innovation, and expanding international cooperation while maintaining vigilance against regional public health threats.
One of the major outcomes of the meeting was Cabinet’s approval of the draft law determining state finances for the 2026/27 fiscal year. The proposed budget is designed to support Rwanda’s long-term development ambitions by increasing agricultural productivity, promoting industrial growth, creating employment opportunities, and safeguarding macroeconomic stability. Government officials emphasized that the budget aligns with national priorities aimed at accelerating economic transformation while ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth across different sectors of the economy.
Cabinet also received an update on the Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the region and reviewed Rwanda’s preparedness measures. The Ministry of Health informed Cabinet that prevention, screening, and surveillance systems have been strengthened at all border entry points to protect public health and prevent the spread of the disease into the country. Authorities reiterated that Rwanda has not recorded any Ebola cases and that normal activities continue nationwide. Citizens were encouraged to remain alert and continue observing public health guidance issued by relevant institutions.
In a move aimed at strengthening development financing and international partnerships, Cabinet approved several draft laws relating to the ratification of financing and loan agreements between Rwanda and international development institutions. These include additional financing for the Muvumba Multipurpose Water Resources Development Program through cooperation with the African Development Bank, as well as agreements with the International Development Association to support projects focused on refugee and host community inclusion, urban mobility improvement, and disaster risk management financing. Cabinet also approved a draft law ratifying an agreement between Rwanda and Botswana aimed at eliminating double taxation and preventing tax evasion, a measure expected to encourage trade, investment, and stronger economic relations between the two countries.
The government further approved a series of international aviation agreements with Algeria, Azerbaijan, Botswana, Costa Rica, Guyana, Morocco, Senegal, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom. These agreements are expected to strengthen Rwanda’s connectivity with international markets, facilitate tourism and trade, and reinforce the country’s growing role as a regional aviation hub. Cabinet also approved the ratification of the agreement establishing the Africa Risk Capacity Agency, a continental institution designed to help African countries improve preparedness and response to natural disasters and climate-related risks.
Among the most significant policy decisions announced during the meeting was the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Agency. The new institution is expected to play a central role in accelerating artificial intelligence development, innovation, adoption, investment, and governance across Rwanda. The agency will support the country’s broader digital transformation agenda and contribute to economic growth by encouraging responsible use of emerging technologies, attracting investment, and strengthening Rwanda’s position as a leader in digital innovation on the African continent.
Cabinet also endorsed a revised headquarters agreement between the Government of Rwanda and the Nile Basin Initiative’s Nile Equatorial Lakes Subsidiary Action Program Coordination Unit. In addition, members approved several applications for mineral and quarry licenses as well as the lease of state-owned land in Karongi District to Zipline Rwanda Ltd., a company known for its role in drone-based medical delivery services and technological innovation.
The meeting also approved agrément for several incoming diplomatic representatives and international organization officials. These include Jérémie Blin as Ambassador of the European Union to Rwanda, Dr. Simone Knapp as Ambassador of Austria to Rwanda, and Dede Ekoue as the Country Representative of the International Fund for Agricultural Development in Rwanda. The appointments reflect Rwanda’s continued engagement with international partners and development institutions working across various sectors.
A number of appointments were approved across government institutions. Within the Gender Monitoring Office, Habiyaremye Rurihose Florien was reappointed as Deputy Chief Gender Monitor in charge of Gender Mainstreaming. At the Rwanda Development Board, Ineza Izere Gratien was appointed Internal Audit Division Manager. The Rwanda Governance Board received several new appointments, including leaders responsible for service delivery, research, governance, registration services, and policy analysis. Additional appointments were made within the Higher Education Council, covering positions related to digitalization, research, quality enhancement, communications, and legal affairs.
Cabinet was also informed of upcoming national and international events scheduled to take place in Rwanda. The Minister of Sports briefed members on preparations for the 21st edition of the Kigali International Peace Marathon, set for June 13–14, 2026, an event expected to attract athletes and visitors from around the world. The Minister of Environment also announced that Kigali will host the 38th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol from November 2–6, 2026, further reinforcing Rwanda’s growing reputation as a destination for major international conferences and global policy discussions.
The decisions taken during the Cabinet meeting demonstrate Rwanda’s continued commitment to strengthening economic development, enhancing public services, expanding international partnerships, and embracing technological innovation. With the approval of a new national budget framework, major development financing agreements, and the establishment of a National Artificial Intelligence Agency, the government has signaled its intention to accelerate progress toward its long-term vision of sustainable growth, digital transformation, and improved quality of life for citizens across the country.
