The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) has reached a major milestone in its mission to strengthen the country’s accountancy profession, having certified a total of 1,103 accounting professionals since the introduction of its examinations in 2012.
The milestone was celebrated during ICPAR’s first-ever graduation ceremony, held at the Adventist University of Central Africa (AUCA), Masoro Campus.
The event brought together graduates, government officials, academics, and industry stakeholders to recognize professional excellence and highlight the growing role of accountants in Rwanda’s economic development.
To date, ICPAR has certified 700 Certified Public Accountants (CPA) and 403 Certified Accounting Technicians (CAT), reflecting steady growth in demand for professional accounting qualifications.
Call to Embrace Technology and Integrity
The Chief Guest, RRA Commissioner General, Ronald Niwenshuti, urged graduates to use their newly acquired skills to contribute to Rwanda’s development while embracing emerging technologies.
“Graduates should use their knowledge to develop Rwanda, the region, and the world at large by embracing technology such as artificial intelligence. The public accounting field is increasingly competitive and requires professionals who continuously sharpen their skills and learn every day,” Niwenshuti said.
He emphasized that integrity remains a cornerstone of the accounting profession and encouraged graduates to think beyond traditional career paths.
“The Government of Rwanda has put in place the necessary infrastructure for accountants. Jobs are available, but the key question is what value you bring to the market. Graduates should not only think of public jobs but also focus on creating jobs. There is a high demand for accountants in Rwanda,” he added.
Accountants Key to Good Governance
Speaking to Taarifa, ICPAR noted that the growing pool of qualified accountants plays a critical role in promoting sound financial management, accountability, and good governance across both the public and private sectors.
These competencies are essential as Rwanda positions itself as a regional financial and business hub under Vision 2050.
The Institute also reiterated its commitment to maintaining high professional standards through a revamped, competency-based CPA qualification aligned with international benchmarks.
Shift Toward Professional Courses
ICPAR Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Amini, called on the public—especially academics and education providers—to promote professional accounting courses such as CPA, rather than focusing solely on long academic degree programs.
“There is a need to educate tuition providers and the public about short professional courses like CPA, which are highly demanded in Rwanda. The country has over 269,000 registered businesses that require accounting services. As Rwanda positions itself as an international business center, we need quality accountants to serve that market,” Amini Miramago said.
He added that professional courses equip learners with technical expertise, ethical grounding, and leadership skills needed in today’s fast-evolving economic environment.
Graduates Share Their Experiences
Some graduates praised the Government of Rwanda and ICPAR for making professional accounting qualifications more accessible locally.
“I already had a master’s degree, but my job required a CPA qualification. Previously, people feared the cost of studying in Kenya or abroad, but now the government has made it possible to study from home. I am ready to give back to my community with integrity,” said Habimana Ishimwe Clementine, a CPA graduate.
Another CPA graduate, Ishimwe Christian, encouraged young people to pursue professional courses and become job creators.
“Many young people think professional courses like CPA are hard and expensive, but that is not true. Rwanda’s main resource is human capital, and there is a high demand for accountants across businesses. A CPA course costs far less than a degree that can cost millions and still leave graduates unemployed,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As it looks to the future, ICPAR reaffirmed its commitment to developing a trusted, globally respected accountancy profession that enhances investor confidence, supports economic growth, and contributes to sustainable development in Rwanda and the wider region.
The Institute also acknowledged the continued support of the Government of Rwanda, academic institutions, corporate partners, and professional stakeholders, whose collaboration remains vital in strengthening accountancy education and practice in the country.
