Crystal Ventures Ltd (CVL), Rwanda’s most influential investment firm, has announced the appointment of Nick Barigye as its new Group Chief Executive Officer. He succeeds Jack Kayonga, who has led the company since 2020, steering it through a period marked by pandemic-related disruptions and significant expansion.
Barigye brings a wealth of experience in finance, investment, and strategic leadership, having spent over 15 years managing companies across Africa.
His appointment marks a return to familiar ground, Barigye previously served as a senior executive at Crystal Ventures from 2008 to 2014.
“We’re especially proud to welcome him back as an alumnus of CVL. With his global and local insights, we are confident that under his leadership, CVL will continue to thrive and advance its strategic goals,” read the official company statement.
Before rejoining CVL, Barigye was the CEO of Rwanda Finance Limited, where he led the development of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC). His work at KIFC helped position Rwanda as a competitive Pan-African financial hub, boosting investor confidence and strengthening international partnerships.
CVL was established in 1995 under the name Tri-Star Investments, with a mission to rebuild Rwanda’s economy after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It has since evolved into a cornerstone of Rwanda’s private sector, investing in key industries such as manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Its subsidiaries include prominent firms like Inyange Industries, NPD Ltd, ISCO Security, and East African Granite Industries.
In 2023 alone, CVL companies contributed more than Rwf50 billion (approximately $45 million) in taxes. The firm is also preparing for a potential listing on the Rwanda Stock Exchange by 2025, signaling its ambition to deepen public engagement and transparency.
Barigye’s return comes at a pivotal moment as CVL looks to expand its investment portfolio and reinforce Rwanda’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.
