Soraya Hakuziyaremye was appointed Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda on February 25, 2023, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She previously served as Deputy Governor and Minister of Trade and Industry. Her diverse educational and professional background equips her with unique insights to promote Rwanda’s financial stability. Hakuziyaremye is also passionate about reading, music, and leading a purposeful life.
Soraya Hakuziyaremye, aged 48, has been appointed by President Paul Kagame as the Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR) on February 25, 2023. She succeeds John Rwangombwa, who led the institution for two consecutive six-year terms since 2013. Prior to her new appointment, Hakuziyaremye held the position of Deputy Governor at NBR since March 2021 and also served as the Minister of Trade and Industry from October 2018 to March 2021.
The NBR is responsible for ensuring price stability and maintaining a sound financial system, achieved through effective monetary policy and financial supervision. In a discussion, Hakuziyaremye reflected on her childhood, upbringing, and her professional journey. She noted that being the first female Governor of Rwanda’s central bank is a significant honor, highlighting her commitment to leveraging her experiences for national development.
Born in Belgium, Hakuziyaremye grew up in Rwanda after her family returned when she was five years old. Her education in Rwanda concluded with a secondary degree from Ecole Belge before pursuing higher studies in Brussels. She graduated with a degree in management engineering from Solvay Business School, followed by a postgraduate program in international management from a university in the United States.
Hakuziyaremye began her professional career in banking at the Bank of New York in Brussels, later rising through the ranks in various institutions, including a significant tenure at Fortis Group that transitioned to BNP Paribas, where she worked in Paris. She later engaged with Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Minister Louise Mushikiwabo, contributing to Rwanda’s bid for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council, which was successfully won in 2012.
Additionally, she founded an advisory firm that facilitated investment opportunities in Rwanda before working with ING Bank in London, emphasizing her strong banking background. Hakuziyaremye identifies as a passionate reader, music enthusiast, and fitness aficionado, citing interests ranging from books to sports and travel, although her responsibilities have limited her leisure activities.
Hakuziyaremye strives to seize opportunities and appreciates individuals who adopt a similar mindset, expressing a strong aversion to complacency. Driven by curiosity and a desire to understand impactful figures in society, she dedicates herself to a purpose-driven life, aspiring to contribute to Rwanda’s developmental vision of becoming a high-income country within the next three decades. In terms of cuisine, she has a notable preference for Italian dishes and a fondness for desserts.
In conclusion, Soraya Hakuziyaremye’s designation as Rwanda’s first female central bank governor marks a historical and significant milestone. Her extensive background in banking, combined with her commitment to national development and personal interests, paints a portrait of an ambitious leader. Hakuziyaremye embodies the drive to contribute toward Rwanda’s future, aspiring toward its vision of prosperity and growth.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
