Rwanda’s drive to build a strong, self-reliant aviation sector gained fresh momentum on Thursday, December 18, 2025 as eighteen young pilots graduated from Akagera Aviation Flying School (AAFS) in Kigali.
The ceremony marked the sixth cohort trained by the institution and underscored the country’s steady investment in homegrown aviation skills at a time of rapid sector expansion.
The graduating class comprised sixteen men and two women, reflecting gradual progress in widening participation in an industry that remains largely male-dominated.
Their qualification adds to a growing pool of locally trained pilots as Rwanda works to reduce dependence on foreign flight crews and support the long-term growth of its national carrier and wider aviation ecosystem.
Established in 2004 as a helicopter charter service, the company has since transformed into a recognized aviation training institution. The newly graduated pilots completed intensive training programs spanning up to two years, earning Commercial Pilot Licences (CPL) and Multi-Engine Ratings.
To date, it has produced more than 160 licensed pilots and trained over 200 drone pilots, steadily contributing to skills development across both manned and unmanned aviation.
These qualifications position them to pursue careers with RwandAir or other international airlines, while also strengthening the country’s capacity to staff its expanding aviation infrastructure with qualified local professionals.
Their graduation comes against the backdrop of major developments in Rwanda’s aviation sector, including preparations for the opening of Bugesera International Airport in 2028.
At the same time, work is underway to establish a centre of excellence in aviation training, expected to be completed within the next two years.
The facility will broaden training beyond pilot instruction to include flight dispatchers, air traffic controllers and other specialized aviation disciplines.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Minister of State for Infrastructure Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye said developing local talent is central to the government’s long-term aviation strategy.
“The push for local talent is part of a broader national strategy to turn Rwanda into a regional aviation hub. With current investments in the Busanza training facility set to triple training capacity, the government is betting on human capital to sustain its aviation ambitions,” he said.
For the graduates, the occasion marked the culmination of years of demanding training and personal discipline. Dominique Niyonkuru, 27, who was named the best performing student, described the journey as the fulfilment of a childhood ambition.
“This journey began as a dream. After finishing secondary school, I saw the opportunities the government had created for us and decided to pursue this path. Today, having completed my commercial pilot license, I am ready to apply the skills I’ve gained to serve my country,” Niyonkuru said.
He added that the achievement comes with a responsibility to inspire others. “I should become a role model for the younger generation. I see myself as an ambassador or a representative of Rwanda wherever I reach,” he said.
Alice Muhoracye, one of the two female graduates, spoke about the challenges of entering a field where women are still few. She noted that there are currently only seven women in Rwanda’s aviation sector, including the new graduates.
“It is a challenge being among the few women in this field, and we still have a long way to go. I always dreamt of being a pilot, but I never truly thought it would happen. Thanks to the support available in our country, my dream has become a reality,” she said.
Addressing the future of aviation training, Uwihanganye said expansion plans are already in motion. “This school will have triple the training capacity of the current Akagera Aviation facility. The infrastructure is being built and the equipment is ready,” he said.
Joseph Ndayishimije, Interim Managing Director of AAFS, said the institution’s mission is increasingly taking shape.
“The upcoming center of excellence in aviation skills represents a major leap forward, one that will scale our impact, deepen specialization, and position Rwanda as a regional reference point for aviation skills development,” he said.
Jules Ndenga, CEO of the Aviation Travel and Logistics Group, said training remains at the core of Rwanda’s aviation growth.
“Training for us in aviation is not only an add-on. It is centered in the vision and the ambition of the country to grow our aviation sector and contribute significantly to our economic development,” he said.
