President Paul Kagame has praised Senator Donatille Mukabalisa for her integrity, humility and dedication to public service as the country paid tribute to the longtime lawmaker who spent more than two decades contributing to Rwanda’s political and parliamentary affairs.
Mukabalisa was honoured during a farewell ceremony held on Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, at the Parliament building in Kigali, attended by government officials, lawmakers, family members, friends and former colleagues. She died on July 30 after an illness.
In a message delivered by RPF-Inkotanyi Secretary General Ambassador Christophe Bazivamo, President Kagame said Mukabalisa’s career was defined by values that strengthened public service, including honesty, perseverance and commitment to her responsibilities.
“Senator Mukabalisa Donatille was characterised by values that have contributed to Rwanda’s progress, including integrity, humility, perseverance and always fulfilling her responsibilities,” Kagame said.
The President said Mukabalisa understood that serving the country was a responsibility of great importance and that her commitment to others earned her respect from colleagues and the public.
“That 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 began her political career in 2000 as a member of Rwanda’s Transitional National Assembly, where she served as Vice President of the Committee responsible for Economic and Trade Affairs.
In 2003, she was elected to Parliament representing the Liberal Party (PL), beginning a legislative career that would later see her become one of the country’s most prominent parliamentary leaders.
She served as a senator from 2011 to 2013 before returning to the Chamber of Deputies, where she was elected Speaker in 2013. She was re-elected in 2018 and remained in the position until 2024.
After completing her term as Speaker, Mukabalisa returned to the Senate in 2024, where she served until her death.
PL officials described Mukabalisa as more than a political leader, saying she was a mentor and adviser who encouraged unity and cooperation within the party. Deputy Munyangeyo Théogène, who represented PL at the farewell ceremony, said she played an important role in guiding members and strengthening the party’s vision.
Senate President Dr François Xavier Kalinda said Mukabalisa left behind a record of service that would continue to be remembered by fellow lawmakers and the country.
Born in Nyamata, Bugesera District, in 1960, Mukabalisa also worked in education and international development. She taught law at the Independent University of Kigali and worked with United Nations agencies, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations Development Programme.
Her death prompted messages of condolence from government institutions and political organisations, which recognised her long contribution to Rwanda’s public life.
