Rwanda and China have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen forensic DNA capabilities, marking a major step in advancing the country’s justice system.
The agreement was signed by Rwanda’s Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, and Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Gao Wenqi, underlining a commitment to enhance forensic analysis, child protection tools, and identity verification processes.
“This is a significant step for Rwanda in boosting our justice system, promoting the rule of law, and protecting our citizens,” Dr. Ugirashebuja said. “Together with China, we are laying the foundation for Rwanda to become a regional hub and model in legal and forensic practices.”
The partnership involves Rwanda’s Forensic Science and Technology Institute (RFI) and China’s DNA Service Center (Hong Kong). It aims to improve advanced DNA analysis, helping solve complex cases, strengthen child protection measures, and enhance personal identification systems.
Rwanda and China already maintain strong bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure and agriculture. China helped construct the Nyabarongo II hydroelectric dam, which provides 28 megawatts of electricity.
In agriculture, China introduced a mushroom cultivation project in Rwanda, now widely adopted by professional farmers. The partnership also supported the construction of a cement factory in Muhanga District, producing high-quality cement locally, creating jobs, and reducing the need for imports.
The new forensic collaboration is expected to position Rwanda as a leader in the region for evidence-based justice, aligning technology with legal and social development.
