Nick Barigye, former CEO of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of Crystal Ventures Ltd (CVL), marking a major leadership transition in two of Rwanda’s key institutions, on being private and the other a government entity.
Barigye leaves KIFC after six years at the helm, during which he played a central role in developing and promoting Kigali as one of Africa’s leading international financial centres.
Under his leadership, KIFC gained international recognition and positioned Rwanda as a competitive Pan-African financial hub.
In a statement, KIFC thanked Barigye for his service and leadership. “We are deeply grateful for your outstanding service and wish you every success,” the centre said.
Hortense Mudenge, who has been serving as KIFC’s Chief Strategy Officer, will take over as Acting CEO. The organisation says her appointment will ensure continuity and a smooth leadership transition.
Crystal Ventures welcomed Barigye’s return to the organisation, describing him as a seasoned leader with broad experience across multiple sectors. “Mr. Barigye brings a strong track record of operational excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth,” the company said.
Barigye previously worked with CVL before joining KIFC and is expected to steer the investment group through its next phase of growth. “We are confident that under his leadership, CVL will continue to thrive and advance its strategic goals,” the company added.
The transition reflects ongoing efforts within Rwanda’s financial and investment ecosystem to reinforce high-level leadership and long-term institutional growth.
