Nelly Mukazayire’s journey to becoming Rwanda’s Minister of Sports in December 2024 is a reflection of her dedication and exceptional leadership in public administration.
Born in 1982 to Rwandan parents, Nelly’s story reflects both personal determination and professional excellence.
Nelly Mukazayire’s academic path laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in International Economics, followed by a Master of Arts degree in Economic Policy Management from Makerere University in Uganda. This robust academic background equipped her with the analytical and strategic skills necessary for navigating Rwanda’s complex public sector landscape.
A Rising Star in Public Administration
Nelly began her career as a policy researcher in the economics department of the Prime Minister’s office before advancing to serve as a senior advisor and later deputy chief of staff in the Office of the President. These roles honed her abilities in governance, policy implementation, and high-level decision-making.
In October 2018, Nelly was appointed CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, a division of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Under her leadership, the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector flourished, contributing significantly to Rwanda’s tourism revenue.
Her success at the Rwanda Convention Bureau led to her promotion in March 2023 as Deputy CEO of RDB, where she worked alongside CEO Francis Gatare to drive Rwanda’s economic development strategy.
Stepping into Sports Leadership
In September 2024, Nelly was appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, where she played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for policy reforms and infrastructural developments in Rwanda’s sports sector. Just three months later, in December 2024, she was promoted to Minister of Sports, becoming the driving force behind the country’s sports policy implementation.
As Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire’s mandate includes strengthening grassroots sports development, advancing Rwanda’s presence on the global sports stage, and fostering a culture of fitness and well-being among citizens. Her leadership is expected to bring strategic investment in sports infrastructure, talent development programs, and increased international collaborations.
A Vision for the Future
Nelly Mukazayire’s tenure as Minister of Sports is set to prioritize inclusivity, youth engagement, and economic growth through sports tourism and partnerships with global sporting organizations. Her track record of delivering results in previous roles suggests a transformative period ahead for Rwanda’s sports sector.
Beyond her professional achievements, Nelly is admired for her humility, work ethic, and commitment to national development. Her appointment marks a significant milestone, not just for Rwanda’s sports sector but also for women leaders across the continent.
In Nelly Mukazayire, Rwanda gains not just a Minister of Sports but a visionary leader ready to shape a future where sports play a central role in national pride, health, and economic growth.
