Theogene Rudasingwa

About

Introduction

Dr. Rudasingwa is a globally recognized advocate for justice, healing, and democratic change, combining medical expertise, diplomatic skill, and humanitarian principles. His long career, from frontline refugee care to international advocacy, shows consistent bravery and leadership.

Early Life & Education

Dr. Rudasingwa, born in Kibungo in 1961, grew up as a refugee across Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya due to ethnic violence. He earned an M.D. from Makerere University in Uganda and an M.A. in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University.

Military & Political Career

In the 1990s, amidst the Rwandan Civil War, he operated as a battlefield physician and subsequently took on the role of director of external affairs for the Rwandese Patriotic Front.

He facilitated negotiations that led to the Arusha Accords. Following the 1994 genocide, he assumed the role of RPF Secretary-General, spearheading initiatives to establish a new unity government.

Diplomatic & Government Leadership

During his tenure as Ambassador to the U.S. from 1996 to 1999, while also representing Rwanda in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, he led the country’s diplomatic revival and successfully negotiated asset-based support from the World Bank and the IMF. Subsequently held the position of Chief of Staff to President Kagame from 2000 to 2004, influencing executive strategy and governance.

Exile & Opposition

In 2004, a conflict with Kagame resulted in Dr. Rudasingwa’s exile to the U.S. He was a co-founder of the Rwanda National Congress in 2010, acted as a critical advocate for democratic reforms, and provided testimony in Spain regarding alleged genocide and war crimes associated with the RPF in 2013. In 2016, he spearheaded the New RNC, intending to ensure transparent acknowledgment of crimes committed against Hutus in the Great Lakes region.

Advocacy, Education & Reconciliation

  • Eastern Africa Meta-University offers free online education to underserved communities across the region
  • Rwanda Truth Commission pursues restorative justice through truth-telling.
  • Published memoirs: Healing a Nation (2013), Urgent Call (2014), and Voices from Exile (2016)
  • Contributor to major media outlets, including Al Jazeera, BBC, The Guardian, and The Times

Speaking Engagements

Key Topics

  • Post-Conflict Healing & Reconciliation: Drawing from Rwanda’s experience to foster unity.
  • Ethical Leadership in Crisis: Balancing governance, diplomacy, and civilian well-being.
  • Volunteering & Social Impact: Strategies for sustainable community engagement.
  • Global Health & Development: Lessons from refugee medicine to international aid.

Signature Programs

  • Healing Series I–VIII: From meaning and forgiveness to business with moral impact.
  • High-Impact Partnerships: Insights from global health collaborations, SMEs, and sustainable supply chains.
  • Nation-Building in Fragile States: Case studies across Africa and global regions.

With over 20 years of leadership across diplomacy, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, Dr. Rudasingwa has played a pivotal role in shaping Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery and advancing global advocacy for peace, justice, and reconciliation. His expertise bridges the fields of international relations, conflict resolution, and sustainable development.

20+

YEARS
OF EXPERIENCE
EXPERTISE

Diplomacy, Education,
Political Leadership,
Human Rights Advocacy

BORN IN

Kibungo, Rwanda

VISION

A World Without Refugees

EDUCATION

M.D., Makerere University,
M.A. International Relations,
Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy