On Monday, 28 July 2025, a handover ceremony was convened at MINALOC between the outgoing Minister of Local Government, Dr. PatriceMugenzi and the new Minister, Dominique Habimana, in the event attended by Mayor of City of Kigali, Governors, heads of MINALOC's affiliated agencies and other senior officials. 

In his remarks, Hon. Patrice Mugenzi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation and showed devotion to continue to serve: "It has been an immense privilege to contribute to Rwanda's decentralization journey and witness the tangible impact of local governance on our communities. I thank President Kagame for this trust, and I am still committed to continue serving my country." Minister Mugenzi stated. 

Taking the helm, Hon. Dominique Habimana acknowledged his predecessor's contributions and outlined his vision for the Ministry. "I commend Minister Mugenzi for his dedicated service and the strong foundation that we will continue the journey from." said Minister Habimana. "I thank President Kagame for his extraordinary leadership that we can see through the way he appoints the leaders.

The Ministry of Local Government plays a crucial role in Rwanda's development agenda, overseeing decentralization policies, social protection programmes, and fostering good governance at the local level.

The handover ceremony concluded with a symbolic exchange of documents, signifying the official transfer of duties. Both ministers also reiterated their commitment to serving the Rwandan people and advancing the nation's development goals.

On July 25, 2025, President Paul Kagame announced a cabinet reshuffle that saw Dominique Habimana replacing Patrice Mugenzi as Minister of Local Government, as part of a refreshed government following the appointment of a new Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva.