Today the National Cyber Security Authority officially launched Rwanda's Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (CYBERHUB). The CyberHub, located at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology, features a Cybersecurity Academy, Innovation Hub, and state-of-the-art technology labs designed to support training and education in cybersecurity. The new centre brings together government leaders, international partners, and industry players to drive advanced skills development, research, and innovation in cybersecurity.

The launch ceremony, attended by representatives from the Government of Rwanda, Cisco, GIZ Rwanda, and the private sector, was marked by a ribbon-cutting led by Minister Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, and Minister Amb. Christine, Minister of Public Service and Labour. The facility is envisioned as a national hub that will nurture top talent, foster collaboration, and support Rwanda’s ambition of becoming a regional leader in cybersecurity capacity building.

The CEO of the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) opened the event by expressing gratitude to the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT), the University of Rwanda, Cisco, and GIZ, recognizing them as fundamental partners in bringing the CyberHub to life. In his remarks, he emphasized that the establishment of the Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence marks a significant milestone in Rwanda’s journey to develop highly skilled talent in cybersecurity and data protection. He noted that the CyberHub is not only designed to serve Rwanda’s national needs but also to contribute to building regional expertise.

Silvia Heer, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, highlighted the critical importance of digital security, noting that it is as essential to national development as roads, health, and other core infrastructure. She commended the CyberHub as a key initiative that strengthens Rwanda’s ability to protect itself in the digital era while positioning the country as a regional leader in cybersecurity. She further emphasized that the launch is a testament to the strong partnership and collaboration between Germany and Rwanda in advancing digital resilience.

Dima Kandalaft, Senior Director at Cisco, underlined the company’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s digital transformation agenda. She noted that the CyberHub presents an important opportunity to expand the pool of skilled professionals in cybersecurity, helping to address existing skills gaps and cultivate a future-ready community. Through this partnership, Cisco aims to empower Rwanda and the wider region with the expertise needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Dr. Ignace Gatare, Principal of the College of Science and Technology at the University of Rwanda, thanked NCSA for establishing the CyberHub at the University of Rwanda's College of Science and Technology. He emphasized that the hub aligns closely with the university’s mission to foster creativity, innovation, and practical skills development. He affirmed the university’s commitment to making the CyberHub a vibrant space for learning, research, and innovation that will empower students and young professionals to play a leading role in securing Rwanda’s digital future.

 

Before officiating the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Hon. Minister Paula Ingabire emphasized that investing in cybersecurity goes beyond defense—it is also an economic opportunity. She noted that the CyberHub should not only focus on training but also on creating jobs, services, and startups that can thrive in the digital economy. Minister Ingabire highlighted that the true measure of success will be seen in how well trainees are connected to opportunities, how businesses grow, and how resilient Rwanda’s digital systems and infrastructure become as a result of the hub’s work.

 

Cyberhub aims to mobilize industry leaders, key international partners, and leading technology providers to create a world-class, vibrant center. These partnerships will contribute to sustaining this initiative, which will have a significant positive impact on the cybersecurity and data protection talent and technology landscape in Rwanda and beyond.