The Rwanda Forensic Institute (RFI) has inaugurated a new branch at the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB) in Huye District, a move expected to strengthen the country’s justice system while supporting the medical sector.
The inauguration took place on October 13, 2025, marking another milestone in the decentralization of forensic services across the country. RFI stated that the new branch will primarily serve residents of Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, Nyamagabe, Ruhango, and Nyanza, though it will also be open to clients from other parts of Rwanda and beyond.
A Boost for Justice and Medicine
Dr. Ngarambe Christian, Acting Director General of CHUB, said the new branch comes at the right time, considering the high number of patients referred from 14 hospitals across the Southern and Western Provinces.“This is a major opportunity for us. The new RFI branch will not only improve access to justice but also enhance research and training for our students,” he said.
He further explained that DNA analysis services will significantly contribute to ongoing medical research.“These services will help us identify rare diseases and improve treatment approaches. Through this partnership between research and medicine, we expect to make great progress,” Dr. Ngarambe added.
The CHUB Director noted that the new branch will add more value to the hospital, which is already among the country’s most advanced medical institutions, pledging strong cooperation with RFI to ensure high-quality services.
A Historic Milestone for RFI
Dr. Karangwa Charles, Director General of the Rwanda Forensic Institute, described the opening of the Huye branch as a historic moment for both the justice and health sectors. “Working with a university hospital is a major step forward. We’ve long been asked how we can help medical students gain forensic science skills now we’ve achieved that. Since we rely on hospitals to collect accurate samples, this collaboration ensures that justice processes are handled professionally from the very beginning,” he explained.
Dr. Karangwa emphasized that training medical professionals in forensic science is a strategic investment for Rwanda’s future.
Government Commends the Expansion
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Mbonera Théophile, hailed the development as a significant step toward strengthening fair and reliable justice in Rwanda. “This is a milestone not only for Huye but for the entire country. Although the institute is relatively new, it has achieved tremendous progress, gaining both national and international recognition. If this pace continues, it won’t be surprising to see RFI branches even beyond our borders,” he stated.
Southern Province Leaders Welcome the Move
Governor of the Southern Province, Kayitesi Alice, welcomed the establishment of the new branch, saying CHUB already has a strong track record, which guarantees the success of RFI operations. “This is a great step in bringing services closer to the people. It means forensic evidence can now be tested locally, results will come faster, and justice will be delivered more efficiently. It also saves time and resources that people used to spend traveling to Kigali,” she said.
Governor Kayitesi added that the initiative will also facilitate training and research opportunities for both health and justice professionals, underscoring that collaboration between institutions can yield impactful, nationwide benefits.
Expanding a National Network
The new RFI branch in Huye joins other branches already operating in Nyagatare, Kirehe, Rwamagana, Rubavu, and Rusizi, as well as two specialized laboratories at Bugesera and Kigali International Airports.
With this expansion, RFI continues to solidify its mission of advancing forensic science for justice and public safety, making Rwanda a regional hub for modern forensic expertise.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
