As technology advances, so do cybercriminals’ tactics. On March 28, 2025, President Paul Kagame emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial tool for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) in combating cybercrime and ensuring a fair and efficient justice system.
Speaking at the swearing-in of Col. Kayigamba Kabanda Pacifique as RIB’s new Secretary-General, Kagame warned of the growing threat posed by cross-border criminal networks using technology for financial crimes, including investment fraud and scams targeting citizens.
“We are witnessing a rise in crimes that negatively impact citizens, affecting their livelihoods. To effectively combat these changes, we must utilize all available resources. We need to continue building our investigative capacity through thorough research on crime, leveraging technology for evidence collection, and using innovative methods grounded in knowledge,” President Kagame said.
He emphasized the importance of using cutting-edge technology, particularly AI, in advancing the capabilities of the justice system. He further encouraged RIB to collaborate with other institutions to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and efficiently.
“AI is now a critical part of our strategy. It is one of the ways in which we can enhance our capacity to address these challenges,” he added.
President Kagame also underlined that integrity is the foundation of all actions within the justice system. He stressed that Rwandans must be able to trust that their institutions are serving them with professionalism, efficiency, and accountability. “Leaders must demonstrate dedication, professionalism, and clear direction in their work, fulfilling their duties with integrity,” he said. “We cannot afford to tolerate subpar behavior, unethical conduct, or unclear procedures. Those who act unprofessionally must be held accountable.”
He concluded by reinforcing that the primary responsibility of the government is to ensure that every Rwandan can live confidently, knowing their security is guaranteed, and daily life proceeds without the interference of corruption or malpractice.
President Kagame took a moment to commend RIB for its significant progress over the past eight years in investigating and addressing crimes, noting that the agency has become a pillar of Rwanda’s security and justice system.
Col. Pacifique Kayigamba Kabanda, who was appointed Secretary-General of RIB on March 26, 2025, has previously served as the Prosecutor General at the Military High Court. He replaces Col. (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga, who led RIB since its establishment in April 2017.
RIB’s responsibilities include preventing and investigating crimes, particularly those linked to technological crimes and terrorism. The bureau also plays a key role in managing data related to criminal investigations and developing policies and programs to combat emerging threats.
In accordance with the law, the positions of Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General of RIB are appointed for a five-year term, which can be extended once.
