Outgoing officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET) have officially handed over their responsibilities to the incoming leadership in a ceremony held on Thursday.
Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, who served as State Minister, handed over his duties to Dr. Usta Kayitesi, a former Senator. Dr. Kayitesi assumes the role of State Minister, while Gen (Rtd) Kabarebe has been reassigned as Senior Security Advisor to the President.
Other key handovers included MINAFFET’s Permanent Secretary, Fidelis Mironko, who exchanged responsibilities with his predecessor, Clementine Mukeka. The ceremony was presided over by Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe.
Prior to the handover, President Paul Kagame urged the new officials to dedicate themselves fully to their roles, highlighting that the country’s challenges require focus, commitment, and extraordinary effort.
The incoming officials bring extensive experience in governance, diplomacy, and public service. Dr. Kayitesi has previously served in the Senate, led the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), and held senior academic and administrative positions at the University of Rwanda.
Gen (Rtd) Kabarebe is a veteran of Rwanda’s military and government, having served as Chief of the Rwanda Defence Forces and in various senior security and diplomatic roles over the years.
