The Government of Rwanda has appointed Dr Nelson Mbarushimana as Executive Coordinator of the Itorero and Culture Promotion Academy, as part of a series of senior leadership changes announced on October 27, 2026.
The appointment was announced by the Office of the Prime Minister in a statement detailing changes across government institutions, diplomatic missions and public enterprises.
Dr Mbarushimana previously served as Director General of the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), a position he held from February 2021. His new role places him at the head of an institution responsible for Itorero and the promotion of Rwandan culture.
Focus on culture and civic education
The appointment comes at a time when the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of national values remain important elements of Rwanda’s civic education framework.
Itorero is a traditional Rwandan institution historically associated with teaching cultural values, leadership, public speaking, governance principles and social responsibility.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), traditional Itorero institutions provided training in cultural values, governance principles, public speaking and performing arts. The practice has evolved, with training and cultural activities now taking place in schools, universities, families and communities.
The establishment and leadership of institutions responsible for these activities are therefore relevant to efforts to preserve cultural traditions and transmit them to younger generations.
Part of wider Government reshuffle
Dr Mbarushimana’s appointment was among several changes announced by President Paul Kagame on October 27, 2026.
Other appointments included Julienne Uwacu as Minister of Public Service and Labour, Judith Uwizeye as a Senator, and Dr Diane Gashumba as Rwanda’s proposed ambassador to Spain.
Dr Valentine Uwamariya was named Rwanda’s proposed ambassador to Sweden, while Noella Dushime was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Irembo Ltd.
The changes also included appointments within the National Artificial Intelligence Agency and the National Post Office.The appointments reflect changes across several areas of public administration, diplomacy, technology and cultural development.