Rwandan Forensics Seeks $37M for Cutting-Edge Tech Upgrade

1. Introduction: Strategic Investment for Forensic Excellence

The Rwanda Forensic Institute (RFI) plans to invest approximately Rwf34.5 billion in advanced forensic technology by 2029, aiming to attain ISO 25017 certification and significantly enhance its scientific capacity to analyze legal evidence. This initiative was highlighted by Justice Minister Emmanuel Ugirashebuja during his virtual presentation to the Parliamentary Committee on State Budget and Patrimony on May 9th. He emphasized that this investment is crucial for improving institutional performance and ensuring accurate, timely forensic examinations during criminal investigations.

2. Annual Budget Allocations and Milestones

To date, about Rwf1.4 billion has already been invested in modern laboratory equipment. For the upcoming fiscal year 2025/2026, the government plans to allocate an additional Rwf1.7 billion specifically for the purchase of critical forensic reagents and chemicals. This follows an earlier allocation of Rwf836 million in the 2024/2025 fiscal year, out of which Rwf653 million—approximately 78%—has already been spent.

3. Supporting Assets and Security-Related Expenditures

Significant additional investments include Rwf509 million for transportation units used by Integrated One-Stop Centers (IOSCs), Rwf395 million for costs related to scientific evidence handling, and Rwf2.3 billion dedicated to counter-terrorism intelligence operations. Looking ahead, projections show increasing funding needs, with Rwf5.2 billion expected for FY 2025/2026 and annual allocations of more than Rwf6.5 billion through the end of FY 2028/2029 to complete all planned initiatives.

4. Infrastructure Needs for ISO Compliance

Currently, RFI operates within a 3,000-square-meter facility in Kacyiru. However, achieving full operational efficiency and ISO 17025 accreditation will require expanding the workspace to at least 22,000 square meters. Authorities are exploring options such as constructing new facilities, acquiring land, or leasing property to fulfill this requirement.

5. Transition from External Dependency to Domestic Capability

Historically, Rwanda relied on international forensic labs—mainly in Germany—where evidence processing could take over 12 months, incurring high costs and delays. Today, Rwanda has become self-sufficient in DNA diagnostics and has started offering these forensic services to other Sub-Saharan African nations, significantly improving turnaround times and regional access.

6. Institutional Evolution and Regional Reputation

Originally launched six years ago as the ‘Rwanda Forensic Lab’, the institution was later renamed ‘Rwandan Forensic Institution’ and operates under the Ministry of Justice. It serves only government agencies with a focus on investigative services and has earned notable recognition from neighboring countries for its forensic expertise.

7. International Collaboration and Scientific Leadership

Recent strategic partnerships include signed agreements with counterparts from South Sudan, Nigeria, and Seychelles. Moreover, Rwanda now hosts the African Forum Society for Applied Sciences, whose headquarters are based locally. This solidifies Rwanda’s leadership role in shaping modern discourse and applications within the forensic science sector in Africa.