The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) congratulates AAS Fellow Prof. Romain Murenzi on his election as a Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS), one of the highest honours in the global physics community. The recognition celebrates his outstanding contributions to science, education, science diplomacy and international scientific cooperation.

A renowned physicist, educator and science leader, Prof. Murenzi was honoured by APS for his “extraordinary leadership in leveraging science for peace and progress,” particularly through creating opportunities for women and girls in science, championing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Rwanda and across the developing world, and fostering innovative global scientific collaborations.

Prof. Murenzi has built a distinguished career spanning academia, government service and international science policy. Following the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, he played a pivotal role in rebuilding the country’s education and research systems, serving as Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Scientific Research and later as Minister in the President’s Office responsible for Science, Technology and Scientific Research.

An AAS Fellow since 2012, Prof. Murenzi exemplifies the Academy’s vision of harnessing science, technology and innovation for sustainable development across Africa. His election to APS underscores the global impact of African scientific leadership and the critical role of science in fostering peace, prosperity and inclusive development.

The AAS joins the international scientific community in celebrating this well-deserved achievement and applauds Prof. Murenzi’s continued commitment to advancing science for the benefit of society.