Domitilla Mukantaganzwa (born 1964) is the newly appointed Chief Justice of Rwanda, a role she assumed on December 3, 2024, following her appointment by President Paul Kagame. As one of the five highest-ranking positions in Rwanda’s governance, her appointment marks a significant milestone in the country’s judiciary. Mukantaganzwa succeeds Faustin Ntezilyayo, who served as Chief Justice for five years.
She is the sixth Chief Justice of Rwanda since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and only the second woman to hold the position, after Aloysie Cyanzayire, who served from 2003 to 2011.
She is married to Theoneste Mutsindashyaka, a former Minister of Education and former Mayor of Kigali City.
Education
Mukantaganzwa has a strong academic background in law and peace studies:
- Master’s Degree in Peace Studies – Hekima University College, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Law – National University of Rwanda (1987).
- Diploma in Legal Practice – Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), Rwanda.
Career Highlights
Mukantaganzwa’s illustrious career spans over three decades in the legal field, with numerous high-ranking roles in both government and international organizations:
- Pre-1994 Roles:
- Assistant to the Bourgmestre (Mayor) of Nyarugenge.
- Registration Officer, Ministry of Agriculture.
- Post-1994 Roles:
- 1994–1998: Director General, Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour.
- 1999–2003: Commissioner, Legal and Constitutional Commission, contributing to the drafting of the 2003 Constitution of Rwanda.
- 2003–2012: Executive Secretary, Gacaca Courts. She oversaw the traditional judicial system that processed nearly two million cases related to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
- 2012–2024: Chairperson, Rwanda Law Reform Commission, where she spearheaded efforts to modernize and amend the nation’s legal framework.
Appointment as Chief Justice
Mukantaganzwa’s appointment as Chief Justice is a testament to her extensive experience, deep knowledge of Rwandan law, and commitment to justice. Her leadership is expected to focus on further strengthening Rwanda’s judicial system, ensuring legal reforms, and upholding the rule of law.
As Chief Justice, Mukantaganzwa will serve a five-year term, renewable once.
Legacy and Impact
Mukantaganzwa’s career reflects a dedication to rebuilding and reforming Rwanda’s legal and social systems in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi. Her leadership of the Gacaca Courts remains one of her most notable achievements, contributing to restorative justice and national reconciliation.
She stands as a symbol of progress and inclusivity in Rwanda’s governance, breaking barriers as one of the country’s top female leaders.
Mini Biography Table: Domitilla Mukantaganzwa
| Full Name | Domitilla Mukantaganzwa |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 11, 1964 |
| Education | – Master’s in Peace Studies, Hekima University College, Kenya – Bachelor’s in Law, National University of Rwanda (1987) – Diploma in Legal Practice, ILPD, Rwanda |
| Key Career Roles | – Executive Secretary, Gacaca Courts (2003–2012) – Chairperson, Rwanda Law Reform Commission (2012–2024) – Commissioner, Legal and Constitutional Commission (1999–2003) – Director General, Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (1994–1998) |
| Spouse | Theoneste Mutsindashyaka (former Minister of Education, former Mayor of Kigali) |
| Legacy | Leader in justice reforms, notable contributions to reconciliation and legal modernization in Rwanda. |
