Ivan Mbaraga Named Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda

KIGALI, Rwanda - The American Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda (AmCham Rwanda) has appointed Ivan Mbaraga as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective November 4, 2025.

The appointment was announced as part of AmCham Rwanda’s renewed commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and cooperation between Rwanda and the United States.

Mbaraga, who currently serves as CEO of Oklahoma Christian University Rwanda Campus (OC Rwanda) and Director of Aspire Academy Bugesera, will lead the board for a two-year term. His mandate includes coordinating AmCham Rwanda’s members with government agencies, promoting bilateral trade, and advancing programs that support youth entrepreneurship and education-based investments.

The Chamber, which serves as a bridge between Rwandan and American businesses, aims to promote knowledge-driven investments and projects that create sustainable jobs. The new leadership team includes professionals from the business, education, and technology sectors.

Holding a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Development from Oklahoma Christian University, Mbaraga has extensive experience managing educational and business initiatives in Rwanda and abroad. He is also a co-founder of Aspire Academy, a school serving children from low-income families in Bugesera District.

In a statement, Oklahoma Christian University of Rwanda congratulated Mbaraga on his appointment, praising his “integrity-driven leadership and commitment to impactful collaboration” between Rwanda and the United States.

According to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the United States invested $441.3 million in 31 projects in 2024, while bilateral trade in goods and services reached $368.9 million, underscoring the growing partnership between the two nations.