On Monday, November 2, 2026, the outgoing Minister of Public Service and Labour, Uwizeye Judith, handed over office to her successor, Uwacu Julienne.
Upon taking office, Minister Uwacu pledged to pursue measures to expand employment opportunities for Rwandans, improve service delivery in public institutions and advance reforms in labour laws and workplace practices.
President Paul Kagame appointed Uwacu as Minister of Public Service and Labour on October 27, 2026, replacing Uwizeye, who was appointed to the Senate.
Both officials were sworn into their respective positions before President Kagame on October 30, 2026. During the ceremony, the President reminded them that their oaths carried a responsibility to serve the country and deliver tangible results.
Uwacu returns to Cabinet after an eight-year absence. She previously served as Minister of Sports and Culture, a position she assumed in February 2015 and held until October 2018. After leaving government, she continued working in various institutions, including serving as Chief Executive Officer of Unity Club Intwararumuri.
Her predecessor, Uwizeye, had served as Minister of Public Service and Labour for only a few months, having been appointed in June 2026. She replaced Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka, who was appointed Rwanda’s ambassador to Spain.
The Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA) is responsible for supporting public institutions in improving their operations and developing policies and regulations governing public servants. Its mandate also includes establishing public service structures, determining salary frameworks and other employment benefits, and helping government institutions recruit and train qualified personnel to deliver quality services.
The ministry also develops strategies to promote job creation and monitors developments in the country’s labour market.
