On January 29, 2026, the Office of the Prime Minister announced key appointments by President Paul Kagame, strengthening the Presidency’s defense and security advisory team.
Brig Gen Jean Paul Nyirubutama moves from Deputy Secretary General at the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) to Deputy Senior Defense and Security Advisor in the Office of the President. He will now deputize Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe.
Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, appointed Senior Security Advisor at the Presidency in December 2025, steps up after serving as Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
James Wizeye fills the vacancy as the new Deputy Secretary General of NISS, succeeding Brig Gen Nyirubutama.
This reshuffle highlights a consolidation of experienced military leaders in advisory roles amid Rwanda’s focus on national security.
