KIGALI – Rwanda’s private sector has ushered in new leadership following the election of businessman François Twagirumukiza as chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), the umbrella body that represents businesses across the country
Twagirumukiza was elected on March 13, 2026, replacing Jeanne Françoise Mubiligi, bringing to the position more than 28 years of experience in entrepreneurship and business leadership.
His election marks the final stage of PSF’s national electoral process, which begins at the grassroots level through business associations and sector councils before culminating in the selection of the federation’s top leadership.
Running unopposed for the position, Twagirumukiza secured a strong mandate from PSF members, winning 191 votes, with nine abstentions and two votes against.
He will serve a three-year term, renewable once, during which he is expected to guide the federation’s efforts to strengthen the role of the private sector in Rwanda’s economic transformation.
A prominent figure in Rwanda’s business community, Twagirumukiza is the owner of Eastern Hope Ltd, an international trading company specializing in construction equipment and metal products.
He also owns White Storm Apartment and is a major shareholder in CHIC Building, one of Kigali’s well-known commercial properties.
Before entering the business world, he began his career as a teacher in 1992 after completing a bachelor’s degree in African linguistics, later transitioning into entrepreneurship within a short period.
His election comes at a time when the PSF continues to expand its role as a bridge between the private sector and government institutions.
Over the years, the federation has supported initiatives aimed at improving the business environment, strengthening industrial development and promoting entrepreneurship, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises.
Alongside Twagirumukiza, PSF members elected a new executive team to support the federation’s leadership.
Jean Claude Uwizeyemungu, owner of Mahwi Grain Millers, was elected First Vice Chairperson with 184 votes, while Diane Mukasahaha Kamanzi, proprietor of a clothing factory in the Kigali Special Economic Zone, was elected Second Vice Chairperson with 180 votes.
The elections also produced leaders for the federation’s sector clusters, which represent key segments of Rwanda’s economy. In the Industry cluster, Josiane Nsanza Usanase was elected chairperson, supported by Jules Murekezi as first vice chairperson and Nyabudala Martin as second vice chairperson.
The Agriculture sector elected Christian Irakoze as chairperson, assisted by Jean Claude Shirimpumu and Immaculée Kayitesi as first and second vice chairpersons respectively.
In the Trade cluster, Faustin Niyibishobora was elected chairperson, with Stafford Rubagumya as first vice chairperson and Sonia Umurungi as second vice chairperson. The Services sector will be led by Christian Ndagijimana, supported by Eric Rutayisire and Joan Mpazimpaka.
Meanwhile, the specialized category representing women, youth and persons with disabilities elected Thérèse Sekamana as chairperson, with Gloria Girabawe, Kefa Shimwayesu, and Papy Sibomana serving as vice chairpersons responsible for women, youth and persons with disabilities.
The PSF electoral framework, introduced in 2020, emphasizes broad participation within Rwanda’s private sector by allowing representatives from different business associations and sector councils to take part in the leadership selection process.
The structure is designed to ensure that the interests of diverse economic sectors are represented in the federation’s governance.
With Twagirumukiza now leading the federation, stakeholders within the business community expect renewed focus on strengthening Rwanda’s investment climate, expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs and enhancing the competitiveness of local companies in regional and global markets.
