In Rwanda, women are assuming increasingly prominent roles across all sectors, emerging as driving forces behind progress in sports, climate action, inclusivity, business, and beyond. To recognize their contributions and potential, SENS Magazine has selected and spotlighted six Rwandan women to watch in 2024.
These individuals embody resilience, innovation, and leadership, poised to shape the country’s trajectory and inspire positive change on both national and global scales.
Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa
Clare Akamanzi, a seasoned business executive and international trade expert, assumed her role as the CEO of NBA Africa on January 23. With a background in driving economic growth and fostering partnerships, Akamanzi brings a wealth of experience to her new position.
As CEO of NBA Africa, Akamanzi is tasked with overseeing the NBA’s business and basketball development initiatives across the continent.
In 2024, the world will see Akamanzi expand the popularity of basketball on the continent. As an executive at the Basketball Africa League (BAL), she will implement grassroots basketball programs, focusing on media distribution, corporate partnerships, and social responsibility projects aimed at improving the lives of African youth and families.
Before joining NBA Africa, she served as the CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for over six years. During her tenure, she was at the helm in driving Rwanda’s economic growth through private sector expansion. Under her leadership, RDB implemented various business reforms and initiatives, attracting significant investments and fostering partnerships with renowned entities like Arsenal FC, Paris Saint-Germain FC, and TIME Magazine.
Her career trajectory spans across various government and international roles. She previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of RDB and held positions in the Office of the President of the Republic of Rwanda.
Grace Ineza Umuhoza, Founder of The Green Protector
Grace Ineza Umuhoza is a passionate ecofeminist and founder of The Green Protector, an organization dedicated to environmental advocacy and youth empowerment. She co-founded the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition, a global initiative uniting youth from over 60 countries to push for concrete action on climate-related loss and damage
With a focus on climate justice and community resilience, Umuhoza has made contributions to the global fight against climate change.
Umuhoza advocates for the empowerment of women, girls, and marginalized communities in the fight against climate change.
Through her NGO, The Green Protector, she works tirelessly to increase youth participation in environmental protection efforts. She pursued specialized studies in climate change diplomacy with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and business management with the African Women Enterprise Cooperation.
She was awarded the USAID Water Our Impact award, for her contributions to sustainable water management. She was also honored as a National Geographic Young Explorer in 2020.
Aretha Mutumwinka Rwagasore, Managing Director of INKOMOKO and co-founder of le Village de la Femme (Women’s Avenue)
Aretha M. Rwagasore is a seasoned leader and Managing Director of INKOMOKO, an advisory firm and impact investor dedicated to supporting small businesses.
With over two decades of experience in business development, strategy, marketing, and corporate communications, Rwagasore has made contributions to the Rwandan business landscape.
Before joining INKOMOKO, she held key roles in prominent organizations such as Africa Improved Foods, Skol, CFC Western Union, and KCB Bank. She served in spokesperson roles, brand management, product commercialization, and the management of multi-million-dollar programs.
Rwagasore is a firm believer in fostering entrepreneurship and creativity in Africa. As the co-founder of le Village de la Femme (Women’s Avenue), she has created a platform to empower women entrepreneurs and drive economic growth.
Guidance Mushimiyimana, Co-founder and Executive Director of Rwanda Organization of Women with Disabilities (UNABU)
Gaudence Mushimiyimana serves as the co-founder and Executive Director of the Rwanda Organization of Women with Disabilities (UNABU). Her advocacy for social justice and the rights of women and girls with disabilities has earned her recognition and accolades both nationally and internationally.
She was honored as one of the four “Rwandan Women of Courage” by the former US Ambassador in Rwanda, Peter H. Vrooman back in 2021. Mushimiyimana established the Rwanda Organization of Women with Disabilities (UNABU) in response to the pressing needs of women and girls with disabilities in Rwanda.
UNABU operates as an organization managed by women with disabilities, for women with disabilities, aiming to promote gender equality and empower marginalized individuals. We can’t wait to see how amplified her impact gets in 2024.
Teddy Mugabo Mpinganzima, Chief Executive Officer at Rwanda Green Fund (FONERWA)
Teddy Mugabo Mpinganzima is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Rwanda Green Fund-FONERWA, bringing with her a wealth of experience and expertise in environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
Before her current position, Mpinganzima served as the Head of Business Development at Rwanda Green Fund-FONERWA, where she mobilized resources to support the country’s green initiatives.
With Rwanda facing mounting challenges posed by climate change, Mpinganzima’s leadership at FONERWA is pivotal in driving forward innovative solutions.
Henriette Therese Ishimwe, Cricket player
Henriette Therese Ishimwe is a rising star in Rwandan cricket, showcasing her talent as an all-rounder for the women’s national team.
At just 20 years old, Ishimwe has already left a mark in the cricketing world. She gained international recognition when she participated in the 2022 FairBreak Invitational T20 tournament in Dubai, UAE, representing the Barmy Army team.
During the tournament, Ishimwe made headlines with her bowling skills, dismissing Spirit captain Nicola Carey with her first ball and contributing to crucial run-outs against renowned players like Danni Wyatt and Chamari Athapaththu.
Her performances didn’t go unnoticed, leading to her recognition as the International Cricket Council (ICC) Player of the Month for March 2023.
Beyond her achievements on the international stage, Ishimwe remains a key figure in inspiring her home country. Rwandans remember her pivotal role in securing a qualification to compete at the 2023 ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup after her stellar performance against Tanzania in the final match in Botswana.
Ishimwe hones her skills at a local club Indatwa Hampshire.
