HR Excellence Spotlight: Rwanda's Best

HR Excellence Spotlight is our flagship digital publication, highlighting the top 25 HR professionals in every African country.

Celebrating leaders who are driving change

This recognition celebrates leaders who are driving change, setting standards, and inspiring the next generation of HR talent.

Each edition of HR Excellence Spotlight not only celebrates excellence but also fosters dialogue and knowledge sharing among HR leaders through the HR Excellence mindset video series, making it a must-read for those passionate about HR's evolving role in Africa. Read on to explore the leadership mindsets that sets the best HR leaders apart.

Recognizing Rwanda's Best

Allen Kazarwa

HR & Training Executive

Allen Kazarwa is an HR & Training Executive at Marriott International, known for managing HR functions and developing impactful training programmes that boost employee performance. His expertise includes talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and staff development, aligning HR strategies with business goals. Allen’s proactive approach fosters an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, driving growth and retention. His dedication to excellence and continuous improvement supports Marriott’s reputation for exceptional service and employee satisfaction. 

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Bamurebe Sharon

Human Resource Specialist

Bamurebe Sharon is a seasoned Human Resource Specialist with over seven years of experience across the private sector, international NGOs, telecom, and government institutions. She has a proven track record of building strong relationships and managing HR functions in diverse environments and cultures. Sharon is passionate about working with people and helping them thrive, leveraging her skills in people and welfare management, recruitment, process optimisation, and program management. 

 

Her education combines development and human resources, providing a well-rounded foundation that informs her approach to managing and developing talent. In addition to her HR expertise, Sharon has experience in corporate communications and research, further enhancing her versatility and adaptability in various organisational settings. 

Committed to fostering growth and efficiency, Sharon continues to make impactful contributions to the organisations she serves, supporting their overall mission and objectives. 

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Caroline Kanyana

Head of Human Resource

Caroline Kanyana, Head of Human Resources and Administration at Real Contractors Limited, brings 9 years of expertise in HR management. She excels in performance management, employee relations, recruitment, payroll, and change management, with experience spanning NGOs, finance, and HR firms. At Real Contractors, Caroline leads HR and administrative strategies aligned with company goals, fostering employee engagement and driving organisational change to support growth. Her cross-sector experience ensures the implementation of tailored, effective HR practices that enhance efficiency and build a dynamic, performance-focused work culture. 

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Colombe Uwase Makombe

Human Resources and Administration Manager

Colombe (Nicole) Uwase Makombe is the Human Resources and Administration Manager at Arise IIP, bringing over seven years of HR and administration experience across various industries in both the public and private sectors. Her diverse background equips her with comprehensive expertise to manage and align HR practices effectively, contributing to organisational success and operational efficiency.

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Diane Karengera

Human Resources and Administration Manager

Diane Karengera is the Head of Human Resources at ITM Holding, overseeing HR operations for a leading staffing and recruitment company spanning 12 African countries. With over 13 years of experience in HR and business administration across various sectors, her expertise includes strategic HR planning, talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement. Diane is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion while building strategic partnerships and leveraging relationships to enhance organisational growth and development. 

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Donat N. Mugenga

Director of Admissions, Recruitment and Records

Donat is a policy analyst and change management leader with a people-first approach, currently serving as the Director of Admissions at RICA. Previously, he was the Head of Human Resources at Agaciro Fund and contributed to the Rwanda Higher Education Council in establishing new universities and programs.

He has held leadership roles, including Chairman of the Advisory Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Mentorship—Africa Program, and Education and Innovation Advisor to LEAD. Donat has received recognition from U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken for his public service contributions.

He holds a Master of Laws from the University of South Wales, an MBA, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Policy and Planning, and a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages. He is pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education leadership at Boston College and is a Mandela Washington Fellowship alum with fellowships at the Dickey Center for International Understanding and the Humphrey School of Public Affairs.

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Enock Luyenzi, CHRA

Human Resources Analyst

Enock K. Luyenzi, a Chartered Human Resources Analyst (CHRA), has 15+ years in strategic HR. As MTN Rwanda’s HR Executive since 2017, he fosters engagement and performance. Formerly, he led HR at the Bank of Kigali (2009–2017) and was Director of Logistics at the Rwandan Presidency. He holds an MBA from Mt. Kenya University, a Telecom Mini MBA, and has executive training from Harvard Business School. 

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ERIC S. MUGANGA

Head of Human Resources

Eric is a distinguished HR professional recognized for his impactful contributions to the field. Named "The Most Admired HR Director of the Year 2022" by The Hospitality Awards Africa and listed among the "101 Top Global HR Minds" by the World HRD Congress, Eric has over 12 years of experience across various industries, including banking, agribusiness, hospitality, and consulting. Known for managing complex HR mandates at national and international levels, he is a goal-oriented strategist skilled at developing solutions and fostering an employee-focused culture that drives quality, continuous improvement, and high performance.

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Galina Kaneza

Head of Human Resources (HR)

Galina Kaneza is the Head of Human Resources at Ecobank Rwanda, known for her expertise in creating cohesive and positive work environments and fostering a compliant, employee-centric culture. As a strategic business partner, she excels in driving continuous improvement, developing HR processes, and facilitating employee support. Galina’s passion for enhancing workplace functionality contributes significantly to organisational success and the achievement of corporate goals. 

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Gloria Kaligirwa

Country HR Manager

Gloria Kaligirwa is an experienced Country HR Manager with over 11 years in human resources. She is known for her adaptability, strong organisational and communication skills, and ability to manage HR functions in deadline-driven environments. Gloria’s solutions-focused approach ensures efficiency and high standards in all tasks, while her core competencies include policy implementation, payroll, performance management, compensation and benefits, HRIS management, coaching, and conflict resolution. Dedicated to fostering employee well-being and engagement, she builds positive relationships and promotes a supportive work environment that nurtures growth. Guided by the philosophy of striving for excellence, Gloria is committed to helping individuals and organisations reach their full potential.

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Mr. Henry, with over 15 years in banking HR, currently serves as Head of Human Resources at Guaranty Trust Bank (Rwanda) Plc, a role he has held since 2017. He has driven impactful people management and young talent development, boosting the bank’s performance. Previously, he was Country Business Partner at Ecobank (Rwanda) Plc, leading integration and change management. Mr. Henry holds a bachelor's in economics (Money and Banking) from the University of Rwanda and is a certified Chartered Human Resources Analyst (CHRA) and PDA Analyst, showcasing his expertise in strategic HR and analytics. 

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Henry Ntagazwa

Head, Human Resources

Jocelyne Uwamahoro, SPHRi

Director of Human Resources

Jocelyne Uwamahoro, SPHRi, is the Director of Human Resources at Rwanda Energy Group, bringing over 15 years of leadership experience in business and government sectors. Passionate about people development, she drives organisational growth by managing human capital as a key asset. Known for her strategic expertise, Jocelyne leads HR policy development, oversees HR operations, and mentors teams. She excels in recruitment, retention strategies, and consultative HR guidance that aligns with business goals. Her holistic approach ensures effective human capital strategies that support sustained organisational success. 

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Juliette M.

Head of HR Operations

Juliette Mwezi is the Head of HR and an experienced Human Resources Specialist with a proven track record in the HR industry. She is skilled in personnel management, recruitment, HR policies, and overall HR management. Juliette holds a Bachelor’s degree (BBA) in Human Resources Management from U-R College of Business and Economics, showcasing her strong academic foundation and professional expertise in leading HR functions effectively.

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Mary Ashimwe

Group Human Resources Manager

As Group HR Manager at Trinity Metals, I have over 27 years of experience in Human Capital Management and Leadership in corporate and public sectors. My past roles include Director of HR at Cogebanque Plc, General Manager of HR at MTN Rwandacell, and Deputy Mayor of Kigali City. I co-founded an HR and Leadership Solutions company and have chaired the Genocide Survivors Fund (FARG) Board. I hold an MBA from Maastricht School of Management and certifications in HR Business Partnership and HR Metrics & Data Analytics.

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Laetitia Uwera

Human Resources Director

Laetitia Uwera, a Senior HR Executive with over 15 years of experience, is known for her agility, strategic thinking, and commitment to high ethical standards. She excels in leading digital transformations and large-scale change across multinational organisations in Africa and Europe. Uwera holds an honours degree from Napier University (UK) and completed HEINEKEN’s Talent Program at INSEAD. Certified as an Insights Practitioner and Career Coach, she is dedicated to cultivating high-performing teams and driving sustainable growth. 

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Mami Fatou Said

Head of Human Resources

Mami Fatou Said, an HR expert with over 15 years in the energy and banking sectors, has led strategic HR initiatives and change management. Starting at Electrogaz in 2005 and serving as Country HR Manager at Access Bank Rwanda, she has driven performance management and talent strategies. Since 2017, she has been Head of HR at Bank of Kigali, aligning HR with business goals. Mami holds a BA in Sociology and an MBA, along with a coaching certification from Kora Coaching Leadership Academy. 

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Munezero Marie Louise

Human Resources Manager

Munezero Marie Louise holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration (Finance) from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) and has 5+ years of team-oriented experience. Known for integrity and professionalism, she brings expertise in intercultural communication, people management, and problem-solving. Proficient in financial areas such as taxation, budgeting, and cost control, Munezero excels in coordinating operations smoothly. Her 'can-do' attitude and objective decision-making are evident across complex projects. She is passionate about leading impactful initiatives and making a tangible difference. 

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Nicole Ingabire Munyangabe

Director of Human Resources

Nicole, Director of Human Resources at Kigali Marriott Hotel, has 28 years of business experience in Rwanda, including 18 years in HR. Previously HR Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel & Kigali Convention Centre, she now leads HR strategies, staffing, compliance, and training at Kigali Marriott. An accomplished author of *Le Bonheur Retrouvé* (2012) and *Urukwavu Rwanjye Rwiza* (2017), Nicole holds a Law degree and is pursuing an MBA in HR at Adventist University of Central Africa. 

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Olive Mushonganono PR

Human Resources Manager

Olive Mushonganono, Human Resources Manager at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), leverages her dual expertise in public relations and HR management to drive strategic development. She oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, and workforce development, aligning HR strategies with RDB’s mission for economic growth and sustainable development. Focused on fostering a positive work culture, Olive leads initiatives in employee satisfaction, retention, career development, and leadership training. Her PR and HR skills enable clear communication of RDB’s vision, fostering a collaborative environment that supports the organisation’s strategic goals. 

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Raïssa Beauduin

Human Resources Manager

Raïssa Beauduin is the Human Resources Manager for the Rwanda Green Fund and Green City Kigali Company, where she leads HR operations and strategy. Tasked with establishing the HR department, Raïssa develops policies and processes that align with organisational goals. Her expertise includes performance management, recruitment, employee retention, onboarding, learning and development, and career growth. She also focuses on organisational restructuring, company culture, and staff wellbeing. With a strategic and people-focused approach, Raïssa is committed to cultivating a supportive work culture that fosters growth and success within the organisations.

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Ruth Mutoni

Human Resource Director

Ruth Mutoni, PHRi, is the Human Resources Director at Green Hills Academy, known for her expertise in HR management and strategic leadership. A certified Professional in Human Resources - International, Ruth excels in implementing best HR practices and fostering a positive work culture. She leads talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and professional development, aligning with the Academy’s mission. Ruth’s people-first approach and strategic vision drive enhanced staff performance and engagement, contributing to the school’s long-term success. 

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Simon Uwiragiye, Senior HR Performance Manager, has a strong background in project monitoring, finance, and energy systems management. With a bachelor's in business administration from the Adventist University of Central Africa, he has overseen projects, budgets, and contractor coordination at EDCL. Simon’s expertise includes financial consolidation, project planning, and procurement oversight. Passionate about energy systems modeling and PPP projects, he contributes significantly to energy project development and infrastructure growth in Rwanda. 

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Uwiragiye Simon

Senior HR Performance Mgt

Vivian Kabanyana

Human Resources Manager

Vivian Kabanyana is an experienced Human Resources Manager specialising in talent acquisition, HR management, and administration. With a proven track record in recruitment and HR operations across sectors such as telecommunications, banking, manufacturing, and FMCG, Vivian excels in developing and implementing recruitment strategies and overseeing HR functions that align with business objectives. Her adaptability and strategic approach enable her to deliver tailored HR solutions, fostering strong relationships and ensuring organisations attract and retain top talent, driving business success. 

 

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Domina Undoyeneza

Human Resources Specialist

Mrs. Domina Undoyeneza, a certified HR professional with PHRi™ and CHRM credentials, holds an MBA and BBA in HR Management. With 16+ years at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), she has led key HR initiatives like an organisational merger and staff retention strategies. Her expertise aligns with RAB's mission, focusing on staff performance and retention. Domina's strong communication skills and deep understanding of Rwanda’s labour laws contribute to a productive work environment.       

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Claire Zaninka Kaligirwa

Head of Human Resources & Admin

With over 24 years of experience in sectors like banking, brewing, and renewable energy, I have led HR and administration functions, including 14 years as Head of HR & Administration in multinationals. I excel in strategic HR, recruitment, talent management, staff retention, and policy development. Holding an MBA in HR Management and a bachelor's in administration, I am results-driven and detail-oriented, skilled in fostering communication, career development, and training programs to enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

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What Sets Great HR Leaders Apart?

True HR leadership extends beyond skills and qualifications; it’s anchored in the powerful mindsets that enable some HR professionals to excel and make a lasting impact. Are you ready to shift your perspective and elevate your leadership from good to truly exceptional?

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