Rwanda has paid tribute to Senator Donatille Mukabalisa, a veteran politician whose more than two decades in public service helped shape the country’s parliamentary journey and whose leadership was remembered for integrity, humility and commitment to national development.
Mukabalisa was honoured during a farewell ceremony held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the Parliament building in Kigali, attended by senior government officials, members of Parliament, family members, friends and former colleagues.
President Paul Kagame described Mukabalisa as a dedicated public servant whose character reflected the values expected of leaders entrusted with serving the nation.
In a message delivered by RPF-Inkotanyi Secretary General Ambassador Christophe Bazivamo, President Kagame praised Mukabalisa’s honesty, humility, patience and commitment to carrying out every responsibility she was given.
“Senator Mukabalisa Donatille was known for values that have contributed to Rwanda’s progress, including integrity, humility, perseverance and commitment to her responsibilities,” President Kagame said.
He added that her dedication came from a deep understanding that serving the country was a responsibility of great importance.
“Her spirit of serving others defined her entire life. It earned her respect from those she worked with and the trust of many people. The country is grateful for her dedication,” Kagame said.
Mukabalisa’s political career began in 2000 when she joined the Transitional National Assembly, where she contributed to parliamentary work and served as Vice President of the Committee responsible for Economic and Trade Affairs.
In 2003, she was elected Member of Parliament representing the Liberal Party (PL), beginning a long legislative journey that would later see her become one of Rwanda’s most prominent parliamentary leaders.
She served as Senator from 2011 to 2013 before returning to the Chamber of Deputies, where she was elected Speaker in 2013, succeeding Rose Mukantabana. She was re-elected in 2018 and continued leading the lower chamber until 2024.
After completing her tenure as Speaker, Mukabalisa remained active in public affairs. In September 2024, she was appointed to the Senate, where she served until her death.
Within PL, Mukabalisa was remembered not only as a party president but also as a mentor and adviser who encouraged unity and cooperation. Deputy Munyangeyo Théogène, who represented the party at the farewell ceremony, described her as a mother figure to many and a leader committed to building a stronger political organisation.
Senate President Dr François Xavier Kalinda said Mukabalisa left behind a legacy that would continue to be remembered by her colleagues in Parliament.
Born in Nyamata, Bugesera District, in 1960, Mukabalisa also contributed to education and international development. She worked as a law lecturer at the Independent University of Kigali (ULK) and served with United Nations agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Mukabalisa died on July 30, 2026, at King Faisal Hospital in Kigali after an illness. As Rwanda remembers her, colleagues and leaders have highlighted not only the positions she held, but also the discipline, humility and dedication she brought to each role throughout her public life.
