The Rwandan government is considering granting citizenship to more than 14,000 people, including some who live on islands in Lake Kivu without legal recognition as Rwandan nationals. A joint team of representatives from various institutions has for years been tasked to look into the issue and address it at the local level. This issue was discussed in the Senate on June 16 as the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) answered Senators' questions about the status of the residents of Rwandan islands. ALSO READ: Nine major reasons why foreigners want Rwandan citizenship “Some of those without citizenship have married Rwandans in unrecognized unions, and their children were born here and they are still not officially recognized as citizens,” Marie Solange Kayisire, the Minister of State in MINALOC, explained. “All the required information has been collected. Those who qualify and have applied will receive citizenship in accordance with the law.” Kayisire emphasized that the process to give them citizenship is underway, with different government institutions working in coordination. Priority will be given to applicants who are married to Rwandan citizens and those meeting criteria outlined in the 2022 Ministerial Order on nationality. ALSO READ: Safety concerns prompt relocation of 11 island communities in Rwanda According to official figures, Rwanda has 60 islands in various lakes, 14 of which are inhabited. Some islands are uninhabited and deemed unsuitable for settlement, while others are currently undergoing population relocation. Kayisire noted that the government is also working to uplift living conditions of island communities, investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Plans are also in motion to relocate residents from the islands like Ruzi, Muzira, and Tereri to areas with more accessible public services. ALSO READ: Burundian DJ Ira requests Rwandan nationality, President Kagame approves and directs process The Senate Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights recently visited several islands as part of a national oversight effort aligned with Rwanda’s NST2 development strategy (2024–2029). “We visited the islands because we want these issues addressed permanently, said Senator Adrie Umuhire, who chairs the committee. Citizenship is not just a legal matter; it’s a door to opportunity, dignity, and inclusion.” Rwanda’s legal framework provides various pathways to nationality, including birth within the territory, long-term residence, and marriage to a Rwandan citizen. Applicants must submit documentation such as birth records, residence permits, and marriage certificates, depending on the grounds of their application. ALSO READ: Things that inspire foreigners to apply for Rwandan nationality Once approved, applicants publicly take an oath of allegiance and are issued a certificate of Rwandan nationality. The process also includes provisions for those unable to meet the standard requirements due to humanitarian or historical reasons, with application fees waived in certain cases.
