Rwanda has inaugurated CyberHub, a state-of-the-art centre of excellence for cybersecurity at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology in Kigali.
The initiative, a collaboration between the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCSA), Cisco, and the German development agency GIZ, aims to bridge the country’s cybersecurity skills gap while boosting the resilience of its digital infrastructure.
Designed to train 200 cybersecurity graduates annually, CyberHub targets inclusive growth, with at least 30% of enrolment reserved for women.
The facility combines a dedicated academy, an innovation hub, and advanced laboratories, offering students both practical and theoretical instruction. Collaborative workshops and hands-on projects are central to the training model, equipping graduates with skills to secure enterprise systems, public institutions, and emerging digital startups.
“This centre will develop local talent, foster innovation, and strengthen Rwanda’s capacity to protect critical digital assets,” said an NCSA spokesperson.
“It also represents an opportunity to promote gender diversity in a sector traditionally dominated by men.”
Rwanda has steadily positioned itself as a technology leader in Africa.
Through initiatives such as the Smart Rwanda program and the establishment of digital economic zones, the country has expanded broadband connectivity, supported tech startups, and digitized government services. CyberHub builds on this foundation, creating a cybersecurity ecosystem capable of addressing evolving digital threats.
The centre’s launch coincides with strengthened national legislation, including recent cybersecurity and data protection laws that provide a clear legal framework for both local and international actors.
CyberHub will also serve as a hub for research and collaboration, attracting investment and fostering partnerships with technology companies and academic institutions.
“By equipping a new generation of cybersecurity experts, Rwanda is taking concrete steps to secure its digital economy and enhance regional resilience,” noted a university official.
The first cohort of students is expected to begin studies in the upcoming academic year, signalling a significant stride in the country’s ambition to become a continental reference for digital security and innovation.
CyberHub is poised to play a strategic role in shaping Rwanda’s cybersecurity landscape, combining education, innovation, and practical solutions to meet the challenges of a rapidly digitizing Africa.
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