Rwanda expands forensic science collaboration at Bulgaria conference

The agreements were concluded during the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS 2026) conference, currently taking place in Sofia, Bulgaria. The global forum brings together researchers, scientists, and forensic experts to exchange knowledge and address challenges facing the sector.

Rwanda is represented at the conference by the Rwanda Forensic Institute (RFI), in collaboration with the African Forensic Sciences Association (AFSA), which has been headquartered in Kigali since 2022.

Speaking to IGIHE, RFI Director General Dr. Charles Karangwa said the event, which opened on May 25, 2026, provided Rwanda with valuable exposure, expertise, and new partnerships.

He noted that RFI continues to expand its footprint in forensic science, adding that its services are no longer limited to Rwandans but are increasingly attracting international clients.

“For example, last year we received people from 45 countries. Many of them come as tourists, but also take advantage of the services offered by RFI,” he said.

Dr. Karangwa highlighted that RFI’s uniqueness lies in its integrated structure, housing more than 10 laboratories under one institution, unlike in many countries where forensic labs are scattered across different security agencies and often inaccessible or expensive for civilians.

He added that Rwanda’s growing visibility in international conferences has increased global awareness of gaps in forensic services, attracting more people to seek services in the country.

“They say these services are usually within security institutions and are expensive elsewhere. I will go on holiday to see Rwanda’s beauty and at the same time access testing services at RFI,” he said, adding that government subsidies help make services more affordable for foreigners and Rwandans alike.

He noted that continued demand could eventually reduce costs for Rwandans as well.

Participation in IAFS 2026 is considered a major milestone for RFI, as it strengthens international collaboration and opens doors for future expansion. The institute also used the forum to secure partners that will support its ongoing projects.

RFI is currently implementing a five-year strategic plan that includes expanding its presence across Rwanda’s provinces and scaling its operations across Africa.

Dr. Karangwa said the conference also provided an opportunity to promote Rwanda’s model of integrated forensic services.

“Today we held a meeting bringing together Africans. It is an opportunity to showcase what we have so that others can understand and collaborate with us,” he said. He added that many participants were surprised by Rwanda’s advanced forensic capabilities, comparable to those in Europe and the United States.

He explained that Rwanda’s approach to forensic science was partly shaped by its history.

“As a country that suffered the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, there was a need to use scientific evidence to deliver unquestionable justice,” he said. “Every Rwandan should feel that the justice they receive is based on science and cannot be challenged.”

Beyond partnerships, Rwanda also used the conference to promote its ambition of establishing a model African training school for forensic science professionals.

RFI said the event helped raise visibility for the project and attract support from potential partners.

The IAFS, founded in 1957, is considered one of the world’s leading platforms for forensic science cooperation. Its conferences have been hosted across Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania, but never in Africa or South America.

Rwanda had submitted a bid to host the 2029 edition of the conference. Competing with the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia, Rwanda lost to Brazil.

Dr. Karangwa said Brazil won after multiple bids and due to the rotation principle, with Africa and South America still awaiting their first hosting opportunities.

He added that Rwanda was encouraged to reapply in the future once Africa’s turn becomes more favorable.

In addition to networking and promotion, Rwanda also secured cooperation agreements with a Turkish justice ministry-affiliated institution and a French forensic organization.

Dr. Karangwa said preparations are also underway for the 2027 AFSA conference, for which Rwanda is actively promoting participation, with several partners already confirming attendance.