John Ntirushwamaboko, her husband, confirmed to IGIHE that Mukaruliza’s illness was sudden and brief.

"The tragic event occurred today, roughly two hours ago. She was under medical care in Brussels for approximately two weeks," he stated.

In early March, President Paul Kagame appointed her as Ambassador at Large with a focus on regional integration efforts within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Prior to this role, she served as an Advisor within the same ministry.

Amb. Mukaruliza’s most notable tenure was as Rwanda’s first Minister to the East African Community (EAC), a position she held from 2008 until February 25, 2013.

Her leadership significantly contributed to Rwanda’s diplomatic and regional integration initiatives.

Between 2016 and 2017, she led the City of Kigali as Mayor, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s development and governance.

Her diplomatic career also included serving as the Rwandan Ambassador to Zambia and Malawi, roles she assumed after her mayoral tenure in Kigali.

Furthermore, from 2006 to 2007, she was the acting representative of the African Union in Sudan and previously the deputy head of the African Union mission in Sudan from 2004 to 2006.

Amb. Mukaruliza was not only a seasoned diplomat but also a skilled financial expert. She played a crucial role in establishing the Rwanda Revenue Authority, where she served as Commissioner of Internal Audit and later Commissioner of Domestic Taxes.

Her financial expertise also extended to the Bank of Kigali, where she worked as an auditor, and to the SOS Children’s Villages International-Rwanda, where she was the Chief Financial Officer.

Amb. Mukaruliza’s contributions to Rwanda’s diplomatic, financial, and governance sectors have left an indelible mark on the nation, and she will be remembered for her dedication, expertise, and leadership.

Amb. Monique Mukarulizahas passed on.