Rwanda appointed Soraya Hakuziyaremye as the new governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, replacing John Rwangombwa, who held the position for 12 years.
The announcement, made in a presidential order on Feb. 25, 2025, also named Justin Nsengiyumva as deputy governor.
The leadership change marks a significant transition at the central bank, which has played a pivotal role in Rwanda’s economic stability and financial sector development. Rwangombwa, a former finance minister, was first appointed governor in 2013 and oversaw key monetary policy measures, inflation control, and financial inclusion initiatives.
Under Rwandan law, the central bank’s leadership structure consists of a governor and a deputy governor, both appointed by presidential order for renewable (once) six-year terms. The law mandates that transitions be handled in a way that ensures operational continuity.
Hakuziyaremye, who previously served as Rwanda’s trade and industry minister, takes the helm at a time when the economy is navigating global inflationary pressures and currency volatility. The Rwandan franc has faced depreciation against major currencies, prompting the central bank to tighten policy in recent months.
The new leadership will be expected to steer monetary policy, maintain price stability, and oversee the financial sector’s resilience as Rwanda deepens its position as a regional financial hub.
