Rwanda’s Forensic Institute Processes Nearly 100,000 Cases in Seven Years

The National Institute for Forensic Science and Technology (RFI) has announced that it has processed 96,989 forensic evidence files since its establishment seven years ago. The milestone was revealed on October 28, 2025, in Nyamata Sector, Bugesera District, during the ongoing public awareness campaign “Sobanukirwa RFI” - an initiative designed to help citizens understand the institute’s services and their role in ensuring justice.

According to SP Ashimirwe Japhet, RFI’s Branch Manager, forensic science services in Rwanda began within the Rwanda National Police in 2005 before evolving into a separate laboratory. In 2016, a law officially established RFI as a national forensic institution, and by 2018, it began full operations.

Initially focused on judicial cases, RFI expanded its scope in 2023 to provide services to non-judicial sectors, extending its reach to both Rwandans and foreign clients.

SP Ashimirwe explained that the institute plays a key role in supporting investigations and upholding justice through scientific evidence. The Sobanukirwa RFI campaign, he said, was born out of recommendations from the National Dialogue Council, aiming to make citizens aware of the role forensic science plays in resolving cases.

Dr. Kabera Justin, head of the Drug Testing Department, emphasized RFI’s mission to ensure that “every Rwandan can receive justice based on scientific evidence.” He noted that citizens often encounter situations - such as cases of violence or disputes - where forensic testing is essential for fair outcomes.

During the session, local leaders were briefed on the institute’s services and pledged to strengthen community awareness. Bugesera Mayor, Mutabazi Richard, said the district would help residents better understand how to access RFI services, adding:

“We will ensure that citizens know that no one should be deprived of justice that requires forensic evidence. We will connect them with those responsible.”

RFI currently provides eight major services, including:

Through these services, RFI continues to strengthen scientific-based justice in Rwanda, ensuring that legal and investigative decisions rely on evidence rather than speculation.