
(3 Minutes Read)
The Rwandan government is in the process of granting citizenship to more than 14,000 individuals living on Lake Kivu’s islands who currently lack official recognition as Rwandan nationals. Some of these individuals are third-generation residents of islands such as Nkombo, Gihaya, Ishywa, and Bugarura, yet they still lack legal identification.
The matter was raised in the Senate, prompting a response from the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), which explained that many residents have lived in Rwanda for generations, often marrying local citizens without formal documentation. Their children, though born in Rwanda, remain legally unrecognized.
Marie Solange Kayisire, the Minister of State at MINALOC, stated that all necessary data has been collected, and eligible individuals who have submitted applications will be granted citizenship according to the law. Priority will be given to those married to Rwandan citizens and those meeting the criteria outlined in the 2022 Ministerial Order on nationality.
Rwanda has 148 islands, with 15 currently inhabited. While some are uninhabitable, others are undergoing population resettlement due to poor living conditions. The government is simultaneously working to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare services for island communities. Relocation plans are also underway for residents of Ruzi, Muzira, and Tereri islands to areas with better access to public services.
A recent visit by the Senate Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights to these islands is part of a broader oversight mission aligned with Rwanda’s 2024–2029 development strategy (NST2). Committee chair Senator Adrie Umuhire emphasised that citizenship is vital for providing dignity, inclusion, and opportunity.
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Rwanda’s nationality laws offer multiple paths to citizenship—through birth, marriage, or long-term residence. Applicants must provide documents such as birth certificates, residence permits, or marriage licenses. The process includes a public oath of allegiance and, in special humanitarian cases, fee waivers and exceptions to documentation requirements.