Kigali, July 24, 2026 Rwanda’s Cabinet, chaired by President Paul Kagame at Village Urugwiro on Friday, approved a series of key decisions aimed at accelerating digital transformation, environmental conservation, investment, and international cooperation.
Rwanda to Introduce a National Digital Identity System
Among the major resolutions, the Cabinet approved the implementation of a national digital identity system that will gradually replace the current physical national identity card. The new system will provide citizens with a digital identity accessible through smartphones and other digital platforms, while maintaining physical ID cards for those who need them.
New Foundation to Support Environmental Conservation
The Cabinet also endorsed the establishment of the Rwanda Nature Foundation (RNF), a non-profit organization that will mobilize resources to support biodiversity conservation, restoration and sustainable management of Rwanda’s natural ecosystems.
To strengthen regional environmental cooperation, ministers approved Rwanda’s participation in the Collaborative Arrangement on the Prevention and Management of Biological Invasions, which seeks to enhance joint efforts among member states to prevent and control invasive species.
Cabinet Approves Rwanda-Mozambique Legal Cooperation Treaty
In the justice sector, the Cabinet approved a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty between Rwanda and Mozambique. The agreement is expected to improve cooperation in criminal investigations, evidence sharing and prosecution of cross-border crimes. It is scheduled to be signed in Kigali on July 25, 2026.
The meeting also approved draft ministerial orders establishing service fees for various government services.
Strategic Investment Agreements Endorsed
The Cabinet approved several strategic investment agreements, including:
- An agreement between the Government of Rwanda and Tau-Ken Samruk (TKS) to conduct geological exploration and mining research for critical minerals in Rwanda.
- An agreement with InipasvalleyRw Ltd to establish a modern wood-processing industry.
- An agreement with Nyirahinda HPP (EUCL) for the construction, operation and transfer of the Nyirahinda Hydropower Plant in Nyamasheke District.
Cabinet Endorses New Diplomatic Appointments
The Cabinet endorsed the appointment of:
- Jirusaya Birananda as Thailand’s Ambassador to Rwanda, with residence in Nairobi.
- Marie Goreth Nizigama as Deputy Executive Secretary of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).
- Anton Buttigieg as Malta’s Honorary Consul in Rwanda.
Upcoming International Events Highlighted
The Cabinet was also briefed on several upcoming international meetings, including:
- The Umuganura National Thanksgiving Day celebrations on August 7, 2026.
- The 26th Eastern and Southern Africa Association of Accountants General (ESAAMLG) meeting, which Rwanda will host from August 31 to September 5, 2026.
- The African Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC) meeting, scheduled to take place in Rwanda from September 1–4, 2026, marking the first time the country will host the event.
