Joseph Murekeraho, a former Minister of State for Education who died on August 8, has been eulogised for his role in major reforms and his compassion towards students and teachers.

Family, friends and former colleages of Murekeraho reflected on his legacy during a wake held on Wednesday, August 13. His funeral is on Thursday.

ALSO READ: Former education minister Murekeraho passes away

Murekeraho, who was 73, had been unwell for a week with illness died at Rwanda Military Hospital in Kigali. He will be laid to rest in Rwamagana District.

ALSO READ: Murekeraho explains his resignation

Murekeraho served in several capacities, including as State Minister in charge of Primary and Secondary Education, and later as chairman of Umwalimu SACCO. He was also among the founding members of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE).

A compassionate person

James Munyeshuri, Murekeraho’s brother-in-law, described him as a man who was both disciplined and playful.

"Many thought he was a quiet person, but in our childhood, we played together, herded livestock in the forests, and even competed in spear throwing — something he excelled at,” Munyeshuri recalled.

ALSO READ: Somali president, other leaders mourn Rwandan diplomat Kirabo Kacyira

He described Murekeraho as deeply compassionate person, especially towards children. "There were times when children carrying milk to their parents in the forest got tired, and he would give them a ride in his car,” he said.

Munyeshuri also spoke of Murekeraho&039;s humility, saying he would interact freely with workers digging dams for his cows or harvesting his trees, sometimes even sharing cigarettes with them when he still smoked.

"He once gave me a cow and even gave another to my child. He was honest and never judged people based on rumours,” he added.

A responsible family man

Agnes Kalibata, Murekeraho’s sister and former Minister of Agriculture and former president of AGRA, remembered him as "a well-behaved and responsible man” who took care of his family and siblings from a young age.

She recalled how he quit smoking out of concern for her health. "Whenever I visited his home, I would sneeze because I’m allergic to cigarette smoke. When I told him, he promised to stop, and the next time I visited, he had already quit,” Kalibata said.

Empowering girls' access to education

FAWE representatives praised Murekeraho’s unwavering support for the organisation. They recalled that when FAWE Girls’ School in Gisozi needed computers but could not find any, Murekeraho, then Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, mobilised resources and secured 100 computers for the school.

They also recognised his help during the transition from French to English, especially in finding teachers for the new curriculum.

Former Senator Odette Nyiramirimo, who spoke on behalf of Unity Club Intwararumuri, said the organisation was shocked by Murekeraho's sudden death. "The last time we met him, he was not sick. He was an active member, fully participating in activities and meetings,” she said.

Nyiramirimo highlighted Murekeraho’s tenure as Minister of State for Education.

"During his time as Minister of State in the Ministry of Education between 2007 and 2008, many changes were made, including the shift from French to English. People wondered if it would be possible, but he did his best,” Nyiramirimo said.

After leaving ministerial duties, Murekeraho focused on improving the welfare of both students and teachers, notably through his leadership at Umwalimu SACCO.

A cultural and political contributor

Protais Musoni, who represented RPF-Inkotanyi, said that before 1994 Murekeraho played an active role as the RPF mobilised Rwandans in exile through culture, such as singing and dancing.

He explained that Murekeraho played a vital role in this, as he was skilled in traditional dances and high jumps. In education, he performed exceptionally and was known for his hard work and precision.

"He contributed numerous writings and shared valuable ideas. He was a man who insisted on the truth,” Musoni said.

Resilience and passion for sharing knowledge

Murekeraho's wife, Juliana Kantengwa, said that he once suffered a stroke, which caused him to lose some memories, but he gradually recovered over time.

"He used to be my advisor in my role as an MP," she recalled. "Because I love agriculture, he urged me to start teaching it to others, reminding me that I would one day die and leave that knowledge behind. I began teaching it to people, together with others, and he helped me to develop a competence-based curriculum that can even benefit those who cannot read. He was a very smart teacher,” she said.