The Private Sector Federation (PSF) elections in Nyarugenge District concluded on 9 March 2026 bringing in a new leadership team tasked with representing local businesses and driving growth. Kivenge John was elected President of the Private Sector at the district level, receiving an overwhelming 93.7% of the votes. Alongside him, a 7-member Dispute Resolution Committee (Komite Nkemurampaka) was elected to assist in resolving business challenges and ensuring smooth operations for entrepreneurs in the district.
Speaking about his responsibilities, Kivenge John reflected on his previous term as chairman:
“Last term, I served as chairman of PSF in Nyarugenge. We worked on advocacy for businesses, raising awareness among entrepreneurs, and collaborating with local authorities to support development in the district. I am happy to see that the new members coming in now have the experience and capability to contribute effectively.” he said.
He acknowledged that previous committees sometimes faced coordination challenges due to limited experience:
“Last term, many members were new, so collaboration was limited. Now, most of the new committee members are experienced. This will allow us to better assist entrepreneurs, raise awareness of their interests, and resolve any issues that affect them.” Kivenge John explained.
The Mayor of Nyarugenge District Alexis Ingangare attended the election ceremony and reinforced the responsibilities of the newly elected leaders:
“I urge the newly elected leaders to focus on the interests of the members they represent, but also to work on initiatives that benefit the country as a whole,” the mayor said.
PSF Acting spokesperson William Buningwire highlighted the formal duties of the newly elected officials:
“The leaders elected today have a three-year mandate, with the possibility of being re-elected once. Their responsibilities include representing and protecting the interests of entrepreneurs, promoting private sector development, and fostering collaboration among members. They must balance individual member needs with initiatives that support broader economic growth.” William said.
He added that challenges faced by entrepreneurs are often unique to each business:
“Different sectors have different obstacles. Service providers, transport operators, manufacturers, and traders all face individual challenges. Our role is to provide guidance, advocacy, and support so each entrepreneur can overcome these challenges. We also work with partners like Rwanda Revenue Authority to ensure tax compliance and build both the business and the country,” he explained.
Kivenge John outlined the priorities for the new committee:
“Our goal is to empower entrepreneurs, ensure effective collaboration with authorities, and resolve conflicts through the Dispute Resolution Committee. We want PSF to be a strong, united federation that listens to members, protects their interests, and helps them grow. Good leadership means listening, guiding, and providing solutions to challenges faced by our members.” he said.
William emphasized the broader vision:
“We aim to unite entrepreneurs across Rwanda and strengthen their voice in discussions with the government and other partners. Leaders must advocate for both individual members’ needs and the collective interest of the private sector. Their work contributes not only to business growth but also to national economic development.” he said.
The 7-member Dispute Resolution Committee will play a critical role in resolving conflicts within the business community:
“The committee will help address issues and resolve disputes that members face. We are ready to handle challenges that could impact businesses, ensuring that all members have the support they need to thrive,” Kivenge John said.
The Private Sector Federation (PSF) elections in Nyarugenge District have concluded with Kivenge John elected as President, receiving 93.7% of the votes. The two vice presidents elected are Mushimiyimana Athanasie with 93.2% and Ngirankugire Bernadette with 97.3%. Additionally, the 7-member Dispute Resolution Committee (Komite Nkemurampaka) was elected to support the district’s private sector. The committee members are Mwenzagu Laurent (98.7%), Mushumba Abdurkalim (86.7%), Rutiyomba M. Theodore (93.3%), Dusabe Clement (86.7%), Gashumba Jean (84.0%), Mukashyaka Mathilde (84.0%), and Mukamurenzi Jeannette (82.7%). This leadership team is tasked with representing local entrepreneurs, addressing challenges, and promoting collaboration to strengthen business growth in the district.
The nationwide PSF elections are taking place in stages, with provincial elections on March 11, chamber-level elections on March 13, and national-level elections on March 16. This structured approach ensures coordinated leadership across all levels of the federation.
