UoK Advances Circular Waste Research
University of Kigali Research Department commenced the second phase of the Circular Economy: Waste Analysis and Characterization Study in Rusizi District on February 25, 2026. The team comprises a Principal Investigator, Solid Waste management experts, Geographic Information System (GIS) Experts and Data Collectors. The Study which commenced in January 2026 is divided in to different components including Conducting baseline waste audit, Identifying Waste Segregation facilities, GIS Mapping of Waste Systems, Waste Wise Cities (WaCT) Survey. A second team from University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) is undertaking a similar exercise in Nyamasheke District. The Research is supported by Spanish Red Cross, Rwanda Red Cross Society and Funded by European Union. The study is aimed at Supporting Sustainable Municipal Waste Management and Circular Economy Transitions by generating comprehensive, reliable data on waste streams in Nyamasheke and Rusizi to inform strategic improvements in waste management systems that align with national policies and international best practices. The Study also aims to improve water quality in the Lake Kivu basin through sustainable economic practices based on circular economy principles and their application in inclusive local solid waste management; Foster knowledge, behavioral change and policy / business decisions towards resilient and circular economy involving LGUs, CBOs, MSMEs and Waste collectors; and Support inclusive circular economy initiatives tested and validated, focused on efficient alternatives for processing recycled plastic and organic waste.
University of Kigali Accelerates Research, Innovation and Enterprise Agenda
The University of Kigali (UoK) is steadily redefining its research and innovation landscape. Strategic investment, deliberate institutional reforms, and expanding industry partnerships are translating into measurable growth in research productivity, enterprise engagement, and postgraduate capacity. What was once an emerging research portfolio is now evolving into a structured, impact-oriented ecosystem anchored in Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE). The strengthening of the Research, Innovation and Enterprise function marked a strategic shift for UoK,” they noted. “It allowed us to move from fragmented research activities to a coordinated, performance-driven system aligned with national development priorities. This structural strengthening has yielded visible results. Research output has grown consistently, supported by improved internal review systems, clearer publication incentives, and strengthened postgraduate supervision structures. Faculties in Business and Economics, Computing, Law, Education, and Health Sciences are contributing to a rising volume of peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, and applied research outputs aligned with Rwanda’s transformation agenda. Behind this progress is a fit-for-purpose Research, Innovation and Enterprise Unit tasked with research capacity development, grant mobilisation, ethics oversight, intellectual property management, and industry linkages. Over the past three years, the unit has institutionalised research guidelines, streamlined proposal development support, enhanced postgraduate dissertation monitoring systems, and introduced structured research seminars to cultivate a vibrant academic culture. Academic depth has simultaneously expanded. The proportion of permanent academic staff holding doctoral qualifications continues to rise, strengthening supervision capacity and enhancing the quality of postgraduate training. This deliberate investment in academic qualifications directly supports timely completion rates and improves the research experience of Master’s and emerging doctoral candidates. As the leadership emphasises, “strong supervision capacity is central to student success and institutional credibility.” Funding diversification has also become a defining feature of UoK’s growth. The University has broadened its engagement beyond traditional tuition-based financing to include private-sector partnerships, climate finance collaboration, logistics sector engagement, and applied research contracts. Partnerships in plastic recycling, waste management analysis in Rusizi, sustainable agriculture innovations, electric mobility research collaboration, and climate-focused conferences demonstrate the University’s ability to translate academic knowledge into real-world solutions. In particular, UoK’s positioning as both a Green University and a Financial University reflects its commitment to linking sustainability, enterprise, and applied research. The proposed Climate Action and Sustainable Development Innovation Research Centre further exemplifies this ambition by integrating climate research, youth entrepreneurship, ESG compliance capacity building, and green finance pipeline development. The University’s logistics and supply chain management ecosystem has also gained momentum. Through industry partnerships and the Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management, students engage in practical learning models that connect theory to warehouses, transport corridors, and e-commerce systems. This integration of applied learning with research strengthens graduate employability while deepening industry trust. Institutional governance frameworks have matured alongside these developments. Since 2022, updated policies have been introduced to govern research ethics, intellectual property, research rewards, data management, and research centre operations. Ethical review processes have been stabilised and formalised, ensuring that all research activities meet national and international standards. Innovation and commercialisation pathways are equally strengthening. The University is progressively building mechanisms to protect intellectual property, support prototype development, and explore patent registration opportunities. Enterprise incubation efforts within logistics, circular economy, agri-processing, and digital innovation are beginning to generate revenue streams that reinforce institutional sustainability. Digital transformation has added further efficiency to the research lifecycle. Online research tracking systems, digital dissertation submission platforms, and electronic ethics clearance processes are shortening turnaround times and enhancing transparency in research management. Taken together, these milestones represent more than incremental improvement. They reflect an institution intentionally building a research culture anchored in accountability, partnership, and national relevance. The trajectory demonstrates that UoK is transitioning from a primarily teaching-focused institution into a dynamic, innovation-oriented university that contributes directly to Rwanda’s economic transformation. As the leadership affirms, “The University of Kigali is not merely expanding its research footprint; it is strategically positioning itself as a hub for applied research, enterprise development, and sustainable innovation. Our focus is measurable impact, strengthened governance, and research that responds to national and regional priorities.” With growing academic depth, expanding partnerships, and structured research governance, the University of Kigali is advancing confidently toward its goal of becoming a recognised centre of excellence in research, innovation, and enterprise in the region.
University of Kigali Partners with LEARN Logistics by Kuhne Foundation to host Sustainable Supply Chain Side Session at ICGSD 2026
The University of Kigali (UoK) has announced a strategic partnership with LEARN Logistics by the Kühne Foundation under an existing Memorandum of Understanding to host a high-level Sustainable Supply Chain Side Session during the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (https://uok.ac.rw/international-conference/) 2026. The conference, scheduled for 8-12 March 2026 at Protea Hotel Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, Researchers, academics, and development practitioners to advance knowledge and action on sustainability. University of Kigali Partners with LEARN Logistics by Kuhne Foundation to host Sustainable Supply Chain Side Session at ICGSD 2026 Dr. Kwena Ronald, the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise at University of Kigali, Co-Chair of ICGSD 2026 and Coordinator of the LEARN Logistics by Kuhne Foundation Programme at University of Kigali confirmed that side session will focus on sustainable and resilient supply chains, exploring how green logistics, responsible sourcing, digital transformation, and inclusive trade can contribute to climate action, economic development, and social well-being, particularly in emerging and developing economies. Through its collaboration with LEARN Logistics by Kuhne Foundation, Germany, dedicated to logistics education and capacity building, the University of Kigali aims to bridge cutting-edge research with practical solutions for sustainable supply chain management. Dr. Kwena Ronald, also indicated that the ICGSD 2026 is further strengthened through partnerships with leading academic journals, including Business Ethics and Leadership, Theory, Methodology and Practice Journal (University of Miskolc, Hungary), Administrative Science Journal, and the Journal of Financial and Management Sciences (University of Kigali). Speaking on the importance of these collaborations, Dr Kwena emphasized that the partnerships are designed to strengthen the academic quality and global relevance of the conference. He noted that bringing together international research networks, reputable journals, and practice-oriented organizations such as LEARN Logistics will help advance research innovation that informs policy, supports evidence-based decision-making, and delivers tangible societal impact. These partnerships will enhance the visibility, rigor, and dissemination of conference research outputs, providing high-quality publication pathways for selected papers and promoting interdisciplinary dialogue on sustainability, governance, and innovation. Dr. Kwena further highlighted that ICGSD 2026 will feature a dedicated Innovation Showcase to be hosted by the University of Kigali. The showcase will provide a platform for universities, startups, research centers, and development partners to present green technologies, digital solutions, and sustainable business models addressing challenges in energy, climate, logistics, agriculture, finance, and urban development. The initiative reflects UoK’s commitment to positioning research and innovation at the heart of sustainable development and to fostering stronger linkages between academia, industry, and policy communities. University of Kigali Partners with LEARN Logistics by Kuhne Foundation to host Sustainable Supply Chain Side Session at ICGSD 2026 Through these strategic partnerships and initiatives, the University of Kigali continues to reinforce its role as a regional and international hub for research excellence, innovation, and sustainable development dialogue, contributing meaningfully to the global agenda for green growth and inclusive prosperity.
University of Kigali Embarks on Circular Economy Initiatives
The University of Kigali (UoK) has officially embarked on a Circular Economy – Waste Analysis and Characterization Study in Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts in collaboration with University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) funded by European Union through Spanish Red Cross and Rwanda Red Cross Society. The Waste Analysis and Characterization Study which is part of a three-year Circular Economy project is aimed at strengthening environmental protection, improving public health, and building inclusive waste-based markets across the South Kivu region. University of Kigali Embarks on Circular Economy Initiatives Speaking at the project launch, Dr Ronald Kwena, the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise, University of Kigali and the Lead Researcher for the Waste Analysis and Characterization Study emphasized that the initiative responds to the twin challenges of environmental degradation and unemployment, while unlocking economic value from waste streams. “This project is not only about cleaning our cities and protecting ecosystems; it is about transforming waste into wealth, creating jobs, improving health outcomes, and embedding circular economy principles into local development,” said a senior UoK official. The Project forms part of UoK’s Green Ambition Strategy and its growing regional leadership in sustainability, climate resilience, and circular economy innovation. The project is designed to support both informal and formal waste collectors, local authorities, cooperatives, and private sector actors by creating an integrated and inclusive waste management and resource recovery system. Beyond operational improvements, the Study will serve as a living laboratory for research, innovation, and capacity building in circular economy and sustainable urban systems. UoK students and researchers in environmental science, engineering, business, supply chain management, and public policy will actively participate in field studies, data analytics, and solution design. By integrating academic excellence with community-based action, the University of Kigali aims to position Rusizi and Nyamasheke as regional models for inclusive, climate-smart, and economically viable waste management systems in the Great Lakes Region. The initiative is expected to contribute directly to Rwanda’s Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and regional efforts to build resilient, circular, and low-carbon economies.
University of Kigali Launches the Journal of Financial and Management Sciences (JFMS)
The University of Kigali marked a major milestone on December 4, 2025 with the official launch of the Journal of Financial and Management Sciences (JFMS) at the Kigali Public Library. The event brought together Dignitaries from National Bank of Rwanda, National Council for Science and Technology, Bank of Kigali, BPR Bank Rwanda, Rwanda Revenue Authority, academics, researchers, innovators and students to celebrate a significant step in strengthening Rwanda’s research and innovation ecosystem. The Launch was hosted by Yvonne Ingabire, a renowned broadcaster at Rwanda Broadcasting Agency. Prof George Kimathi, VC UoK (Left) Mr Philibert Africa, Chairman UoK Governing Body (Second Left), Dr Marie Chantal Cyulinyana, NCST Rwanda (Middle) Dr Mathias Karangwa, BNR (Second Right) and Dr Ronald Kwena Associate DVC-RIE UoK (Right) In his keynote address, Dr. Karangwa Mathias, Director of the Research Department at the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR), commended the University of Kigali for its increasing research initiatives and ambition to build a strong academic publishing culture. He highlighted the growing collaboration between the University of Kigali and the National Bank of Rwanda, which has already produced tangible outcomes. “Four researchers from BNR’s Research Directorate are currently serving as reviewers for JFMS, a strong sign of confidence in the journal’s academic rigor and relevance,” he noted. Dr. Karangwa Mathias, Director of the Research Department at the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) delivering his Keynote Speech Dr. Karangwa also recalled the fact that a University of Kigali Master of Science in Economics student won the BNR Postgraduate Competition, underscoring the university’s rising research excellence. He reaffirmed BNR’s commitment to deepening this partnership, particularly in areas of data-driven research, economic analysis, and capacity building. Mr. Philibert Africa, Chairman of the University Governing Body In his remarks, Mr. Philibert Africa, Chairman of the University Governing Body, referenced the university’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, which charts a bold path toward becoming a research-active and ultimately a research-intensive institution stated that the journal represents an essential pillar of the University of Kigali’s commitment to becoming a globally competitive institution. He stressed that Rwanda and the East African region are undergoing rapid shifts in financial systems, supply chain dynamics, digital transformation, governance structures, and sustainability priorities. “Our response must be rooted not only in training skilled graduates but also in generating evidence-based insights that drive policy, shape industries, and enable innovation,” Mr. Africa emphasized. Prof Manasseh Nshuti, Chairman Board of Promoters (Left) and Mr Philibert Africa (Right) Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Prof Manasseh Nshuti, Chairman Board of Promoters noted that JFMS will play a central role in producing and disseminating such knowledge to inform decisions at institutional, national, regional, and continental levels. Vice Chancellor, Professor George Kimathi Speaking during the launch, the Vice Chancellor, Professor George Kimathi, emphasized the strategic importance of JFMS in advancing the university’s research agenda. He noted that the journal positions the University of Kigali “at the intersection of knowledge creation and national development,” strengthening the institution’s voice in Rwanda’s evolving higher education landscape. “This transition is more than ambition; it presents platforms, systems, and a culture that supports inquiry, discovery, and knowledge dissemination,” he said. “JFMS is one of the key platforms that will anchor this transformation.” The VC also informed that another journal; Kigali International Journal of Education is being established. Dr Ronald Kwena, The Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise Dr Ronald Kwena, The Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise and Editor in Chief, Journal of Financial and Management Sciences outlined the vision, scope and progress of JFMS. He asserted that anchored on UoK Strategic Plan 2025-2029, SDGs, Rwanda’s Vision, JFMS was established to foster Research, Innovation and Enterprise, Impact Policy and Society. He also highlighted that the journal registered with ISSN: 3078-5111 (Print) / 3078-512X (Online) / Crossref DOI:10.70970 focusses Finance, Economics, Accounting and Management ( Projects, Supply Chain, Human Resource, Information Technology) subjects. He added that JFMS draws its editorial Board from Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, Spain, Ireland, Bulgaria, United Kingdom, United States of America; a highly qualified team that ensures Internal & External Review Double Blind Review, Originality, ethics and Data Integrity. Dr Kwena indicated that the journal has published three issues; 1 No. 1 (2025: Special Issue: Sustainable Development – https://journals.uok.ac.rw/jfms/en/issue/view/1 1 No. 2 (2025): International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development 2025 – Conference Proceedings – https://journals.uok.ac.rw/jfms/en/issue/view/2 1 No. 3 (2025): Innovative Financial and Managerial Approaches in Emerging Markets – https://journals.uok.ac.rw/jfms/en/issue/view/3 Innovation Showcases: Turning Ideas Into Impact A highlight of the launch was the presentation of two innovations developed within the University of Kigali ecosystem, demonstrating the university’s commitment to linking research with practical societal solutions. Alphonse Byiringiro presenting his BIMMI Impact Multiplier Model The BIMMI Impact Multiplier Model developed by Alphonse Byiringiro, a University of Kigali Master’s in Project Management alumnus, this model introduces a three-component architecture integrating: Mathematical modelling; Narrative analytics; A digital evaluation framework. The system converts complex, often invisible developmental pathways into a single comparable Impact Multiplier using five measurable dimensions: Temporal – longevity of the intervention’s impact; Economic – value created and economic ripple effects; Spillover – indirect beneficiaries and diffusion effects; Behavioral – behavioral adoption and normative shifts and Policy – institutional and system-level policy responses. The model is positioned as a powerful tool for governments, NGOs, and development partners seeking to measure real, long-term impact beyond basic output metrics. Rudasingwa Jules presenting his Smart Farming IoT Ecosystem The second innovation, a Smart Farming IoT Ecosystem was showcased by Rudasingwa Jules, a University of Kigali Computing student. The innovation featured an integrated IoT and AI platform designed for farmers, particularly those in low-connectivity regions. The system consists of four interconnected components: Real-Time Monitoring – Sensors capture soil nutrients, EC, pH, moisture, temperature, humidity, and environmental patterns; Predictive Insights – AI forecasts irrigation needs, fertilizer timing, and pest risks before they occur; Smart Recommendations – Farmers receive actionable advice via the EZA app, SMS, or automated voice calls and Data Dashboard – A visual platform that stores
UoK & University of Derby Host Joint Research Showcase on African-Led Innovation
The University of Kigali (UoK), in partnership with the University of Derby (UK), held a high-level Research Showcase aimed at enhancing collaboration, strengthening research excellence, and promoting Africa-led knowledge generation. This joint showcase focused on African-led innovation brought together scholars from both institutions, reaffirming a shared commitment to creating impactful, inclusive, and globally competitive research. The showcase forms part of UoK’s broader strategy to expand research outputs, deepen academic partnerships, and accelerate institutional capacity through targeted collaboration with international universities. The University of Derby known for its strong applied research serves as a strategic partner in advancing these goals. UoK & University of Derby Host Joint Research Showcase on African-Led Innovation The Showcase whose Keynote was Professor Chrispas Nyombi, a Professor of International Commercial Law at University of Derby, was organized by Dr Ronald Kwena, the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise, in collaboration with Alex Phillips, the Research Development Manager; University of Derby Research & Knowledge Exchange Office. UoK & University of Derby Host Joint Research Showcase on African-Led Innovation The event was designed around four core objectives: To highlight priority research areas at the University of Kigali where collaboration with the University of Derby is sought. UoK presented thematic areas aligned to national and continental development priorities, demonstrating where joint expertise can create high-impact outcomes. To explore opportunities for joint research projects, funding applications, and technical partnership development. The showcase opened pathways for co-authored research, multi-institution grant proposals, and shared technical resources—critical for scaling African research initiatives and showcasing innovation led by Africans. To connect researchers across both institutions and strengthen long-term, equitable collaborations. By fostering direct engagement between academics, the event laid a foundation for sustained partnerships built on mutual benefit and academic integrity. To support the aims of the African Research Network (ARN) in building inclusive, impactful research partnerships. The showcase aligns with ARN’s continental mission to enhance Africa’s research ecosystems through collaboration, mobility, and knowledge exchange. Five University of Kigali researchers presented groundbreaking studies across priority disciplines shaping Africa’s development future. Their work demonstrated UoK’s growing research strength and its relevance to global challenges. This includes fostering innovation within Africa through these joint initiatives. UoK & University of Derby Host Joint Research Showcase on African-Led Innovation Dr Ronald Kwena (PhD Project Management): Circular Economy Projects and their Impact on Conservation Programs; Dr. Kwena’s research highlighted how circular economy (CE) practices contribute to environmental sustainability and conservation. Through case evidence, he demonstrated that well-designed CE projects reduce waste, protect biodiversity, and create green jobs—presenting Rwanda as a leading example of sustainable development in Africa. Dr Martin Gachukia (PhD Supply Chain Management): Unlocking Africa’s Trade Potential: Building Resilient Maritime Corridors for Economic Growth; Dr. Gachukia explored Africa’s logistical challenges and the need for resilient maritime corridors to support AfCFTA objectives. His presentation emphasized how efficient port systems, regional integration, and technology-driven logistics can significantly reduce trade costs and enhance Africa’s global competitiveness. Dr Emmanuel Bugingo (PhD Computer Science): Applications of Machine Learning and AI for Enhancing Educational Processes and Outcomes; Dr. Bugingo demonstrated the transformative potential of AI in modernizing education. From predictive analytics to intelligent tutoring systems, his work showcased data-driven approaches that can improve learning outcomes and support evidence-based decision-making within educational institutions. Dr Laura Lisita (Law): Children’s Rights in the Digital Age of Artificial Intelligence: Redefining Protection, Participation, and Privacy Online; Dr. Lisita brought attention to critical digital rights issues affecting children in the age of AI. She analyzed emerging legal and ethical challenges—including privacy risks, data governance, and algorithmic bias—while proposing frameworks to ensure children’s protection and meaningful participation online. Dr Elizabeth Owino: Learners’ Perspectives of Characteristics of Effective Open Distance Education Instructors: The Case of Namibia; Dr. Owino presented findings on ODE learners’ expectations, highlighting instructor competencies that enhance student engagement, satisfaction, and academic success. Her work is vital for universities expanding digital and blended learning models across Africa. Representatives from UoK and the University of Derby reaffirmed a shared commitment to deepening academic cooperation through: Joint publications Co-supervised postgraduate research Collaborative grants and funded projects Exchange of expertise and research mentorship Development of thematic research hubs This partnership also strengthens Rwanda’s role in continental research networks, contributing to knowledge ecosystems that promote Africa-led solutions and innovation. The showcase directly advances the University of Kigali’s Strategic Plan (2025–2025), which prioritizes research output, innovation, and global engagement. By aligning institutional strengths with international partners and the African Research Network, UoK is positioning itself as a leader in applied, high-impact African research. As the event concluded, participants praised the University of Kigali for championing collaborative, forward-thinking research that reflects Africa’s development ambitions. The joint effort between UoK and University of Derby in this showcase served not only as a platform for sharing knowledge but also as a catalyst for long-term partnerships that will shape the future of academic excellence across the continent. Circular Economy Projects a n d t h e i r I m p a c t o n Conservation Programs https://uok.ac.rw/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/202511_ARNKigaliShowcase.pdf
University of Kigali Hosts Fort Hare Faculty for Academic Exchange
The University of Kigali (UoK) hosted two distinguished visiting professors from the University of Fort Hare (UFH), South Africa; Prof. Willy Chinyamurindi and Prof. Juliet Townes for a four-day academic exchange focused on staff mobility, capacity building, and strengthening institutional collaboration between the two universities. The visit, spanned from 17th to 20th November 2025, and formed part of the strategic partnership aimed at advancing academic excellence, research productivity, and regional integration in higher education. The exchange programme which is part of a Memorandum of Understanding between University of Kigali and University of Fort Hare brings together UoK’s senior leadership, faculty, administrative staff, and students for a series of high-level engagements, guest lectures, workshops, and collaborative planning sessions. The delegation was received by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. George Kimathi, who reaffirmed UoK’s commitment to impactful partnerships within Africa. Prof. Adeola Ogechi, The DVCA presented an overview of academic programmes, highlighting growth areas for collaboration. The UFH professors delivered introductory remarks emphasizing the value of South-South cooperation in higher education. A major highlight was the Research Expererince sessions on Grant writing and Publishing. The Visiting Professors outlined opportunities for joint research, innovation ecosystems, commercialization pathways, and capacity-building initiatives. The morning also featured sessions on Centre for Modern Languages led by Prof. Wasajja Kiwanuka. The day concluded with a high-level roundtable discussion, where UoK and UFH leadership explored collaborative opportunities in curriculum development, research, digital innovation, and internationalization. Dr. Ronald Kwena, the Associate DVC Research, Innovation & Enterprise Division and a key coordinator of the exchange, commended the UFH team for their commitment and expertise. He noted that the partnership between UoK and UFH reflects “a shared vision to empower Africa through collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and academic excellence.” Dr Kwena added that the Collaboration already led to the joint hosting of the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development 2025 in Kigali (https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/25089/news/featured/featured-experts-gather-for-icgsd-2025-to-drive-green-innovation-sustainability) and subsequently ICGSD 2026 (https://uok.ac.rw/international-conference/) The visit reinforced UoK’s ambition to become a regional centre of excellence in strategic management, HR development, leadership research, and innovation. It also laid the groundwork for long-term collaboration in: Joint research publications Curriculum co-development Staff and student exchange Co-hosted conferences and workshops Shared innovation and entrepreneurship programmes As UoK continues to expand its global partnerships, the University of Fort Hare exchange stands out as a significant step toward advancing high-quality scholarship and strengthening Africa-focused academic networks.
University of Kigali Hosts Supply Chain Experts for Capacity Building
The University of Kigali (UoK), through its Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management (CALSCM) and Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, successfully hosted a three-day “Train the Trainer” Seminar on Case Study Teaching from November 10–12, 2025. The seminar was conducted by Dr. Benjamin Nitsche, an External Senior Lecturer at the Berlin University of Technology, Germany, in collaboration with Dr. Simon Peter Nadeem from Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation, Germany. The Guests were welcomed by University of Kigali Vice Chancellor, Prof George Kimathi, Dr. Ronald Kwena, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation & Enterprise / Director of CALSCM, Dr Joseph Akumuntu, Programme Leader for Logistics and SCM and Mr Luzinda Umar, The Head of Department – Procurement and Supply Chain Management. The Vice Chancellor noted strides made in building capacity in Logistics and SCM supported by Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation. The highly interactive training brought together UoK academic staff, postgraduate facilitators and students with the aim of enhancing pedagogical competence in experiential and case-based learning. Participants were equipped with innovative approaches to integrating industry case studies, simulation tools, and data-driven problem-solving techniques into classroom teaching, ensuring greater alignment between academia and real-world logistics practice. As part of the seminar, participants undertook field visits to Inyange Industries and AGL Rwanda, two leading players in Rwanda’s logistics and supply chain ecosystem. The visits provided firsthand exposure to operational excellence, value chain integration, and logistics digitalization, offering practical insights into the complexities of supply chain management in the Rwandan context. The field engagement also reinforced the importance of industry-academic collaboration in developing practical competencies for the next generation of logistics professionals. This seminar follows a series of specialized lectures and training workshops organized under the partnership between University of Kigali and the Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation. Earlier this year, UoK hosted Dr. Ullrich Förster, a former high-level logistics executive and expert in Digitalization in Logistics, Sustainability, Decarbonization, and Supply Chain Leadership, who delivered a Guest Lecture on Operational Excellence and Project Management in Logistics. Dr. Förster was accompanied by Dr. Lester Shawa, Regional Director of Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation (Southern Africa), who emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to capacity development and applied logistics education across Africa. The University of Kigali–Kühne Foundation collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, established the Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management (CALSCM) at UoK. The Centre serves as a hub for applied research, training, and professional development, supporting Rwanda’s logistics sector in achieving global competitiveness and sustainability. Speaking during the closing session, Dr. Ronald Kwena, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise and Director of CALSCM, expressed deep appreciation to the Kühne Foundation and the Learn Logistics team for their ongoing support: “The continued collaboration with Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation demonstrates a shared commitment to excellence in logistics education and research. These capacity-building initiatives not only strengthen our faculty’s teaching methods but also position UoK as a regional leader in applied logistics and supply chain innovation.” The seminar marks another milestone in UoK’s journey toward enhancing academic excellence, industry relevance, and sustainable logistics practices in Rwanda and the broader region. Future collaborations will include joint research projects, industry certifications, and student exchange opportunities aimed at deepening practical exposure and advancing the logistics discipline. The University of Kigali is a leading institution in Rwanda committed to academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Through its Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management, UoK collaborates with international partners to promote research, professional training, and capacity building in logistics, operations, and sustainable development.
UoK Participates in NBU Conference
The University of Kigali virtually participated in the prestigious International Scientific Conference hosted by New Bulgarian University (NBU) under the theme “The Economy of the 21st Century: Economic Innovations and Sustainable Growth.” The conference brought together thought leaders, scholars, and researchers from across the globe to explore cutting-edge ideas and challenges shaping global economies, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable development agendas. Professor Eduard Marinov Opening the Conference Representing the University of Kigali at the heart of this knowledge exchange were distinguished academic staff members contributing both to the scientific planning and the scholarly discourse of the conference. Dr. Ronald Kwena was Appointed to Scientific Committee, the Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Enterprise at the University of Kigali, was selected as a member of the Scientific Committee of the NBU conference. His appointment to this important role highlights not only his recognized academic credentials but also the growing visibility of the University of Kigali in international research networks. Delegated during the conference Several members of University of Kigali academic staff presented their papers during the conference virtually (https://econconfnbu.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/detailed_program-final.pdf) . The presentations sparked meaningful discussions. Participation in the NBU International Scientific Conference represents a significant milestone for the University of Kigali’s internationalization strategy. It reinforces the institution’s commitment to: Advancing scholarship in economic innovation, sustainability, and global policy, Building academic partnerships across borders, and Promoting African scholarly voices in global debates. As the global economy faces rapid transformation, the University of Kigali remains committed to contributing to research that informs policy, empowers innovation, and promotes sustainable futures. The insights shared and gathered at NBU will inform ongoing work within the University’s Department of Economics and Public Policy, as well as enrich student learning and research development programs. Scientific and Organizing Committee
UoK Marks World Environment Day
UoK Marks World Environment Day: A delegation from the University of Kigali, led by Dr. Kwena Ronald, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise, proudly participated in this year’s World Environment Day celebrations held at the Kigali Convention Centre. The event, organized by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), brought together key stakeholders committed to environmental conservation and sustainability. Themed “Ending Plastic Pollution”, the 2025 World Environment Day in Rwanda aligned closely with the University of Kigali’s growing portfolio of research and community engagement efforts focused on circular economy, green innovation, and sustainable development. The university’s active involvement underscores its institutional commitment to contributing to Rwanda’s green transformation and broader global sustainability goals. Keynote and Distinguished Speakers The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, who emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the transition to sustainable production and consumption patterns. She highlighted the government’s legislative and policy efforts to eliminate plastic pollution and promote eco-innovation across all sectors of society. Other notable speakers included: Juliet Kabera, Director General of REMA, who reiterated Rwanda’s leadership in environmental policy and its pioneering role in banning single-use plastics. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, UNDP Rwanda Country Representative, who spoke on multilateral collaboration and climate finance for developing countries. Joanne Musonda, Country Director for Save the Children Rwanda, who linked environmental degradation to child health and welfare. Joyeuse Uwingeneye, Director General of the Rwanda Public Procurement Authority (RPPA), who advocated for sustainable procurement practices as a driver of green economic growth. CP George Rumanzi, Commissioner for Operations & Public Order – Rwanda National Police who spoke on the engagement with the public in prevention and reduction of unlawful environmental activities UoK Marks World Environment Day:-Research Commitment Dr. Kwena Ronald expressed appreciation for the invitation and stressed the importance of academic institutions in advancing environmental solutions. “The University of Kigali is at the forefront of developing knowledge, innovations, and policies that support the circular economy,” he stated. “Our staff and students are engaged in research that directly addresses plastic pollution and promotes sustainable practices in industries and communities.” The university’s current initiatives include: Collaborative pilot research projects on waste management and circular economy with local cooperatives. The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development, which will serve as a platform for thought leadership, policy dialogue, and solution sharing among scholars, policymakers, and practitioners. Community outreach programs that promote sustainable consumption and localized environmental education. Participation in this high-level event has strengthened the University of Kigali’s strategic ties with environmental institutions and international development partners. The university aims to continue playing a catalytic role in Rwanda’s environmental sustainability ecosystem, through interdisciplinary research, curriculum innovation, and multi-sector partnerships. As the world grapples with the impacts of pollution and climate change, the University of Kigali remains committed to shaping future-ready leaders and generating research that leads to tangible environmental impact.
