The Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC) has appointed Hortense Mudenge as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following a Cabinet decision made on July 16.
Prior to this new role, Mudenge served as KIFC’s Chief Strategy Officer, where she played a key role in shaping strategies to position Rwanda as a premier financial hub for cross-border investment in Africa.
She succeeds Nick Barigye, who on July 15 was named Group CEO of Crystal Ventures Ltd.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), KIFC expressed confidence in Mudenge’s leadership, stating,
“With her leadership and expertise, we are confident that KIFC will continue to advance Rwanda’s position as a trusted hub for international investment and financial innovation in Africa.”
Barigye also extended his congratulations, acknowledging her significant contributions as Chief Strategy Officer and expressing faith in her ability to lead the institution into its next chapter.
Mudenge brings over a decade of experience as a management consultant, advising both international development bodies and private-sector clients on business growth and market development.
Her previous roles include consultancy work with Dexis Consulting Group and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, where she supported the delivery of donor-funded investment programs.
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She holds an MBA from Hult International Business School (USA) and a degree from the United States International University-Africa.
According to a 2024 report by the Rwanda Development Board, KIFC continues to strengthen Rwanda’s status as a Pan-African financial centre.
Since its inception in 2020, the Centre has attracted more than 180 investors—70% of whom are new African entrants and 30% from international markets, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
Image Credit: CEO East Africa
