Kigali, Rwanda — Protais Mitali, a prominent Rwandan politician and former Minister of Sports as well as Ambassador to Ethiopia, has passed away in Belgium following a brief illness. His death marks the end of a long career in public service and national leadership.

Mitali held several key positions in Rwanda’s government over the years. Most notably, he served as Minister of Trade, Industry, Investment, Tourism and Cooperatives, Minister of Sports, and also served as a Member of Parliament.

In 2015, Mitali was appointed as Rwanda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, a post he held until the same year when he resigned from his role as president of the Parti Liberal (PL), one of Rwanda’s major political parties.

Mitali was known for his contributions to Rwanda’s economic development and political discourse, especially during his tenure overseeing trade, tourism, and industry sectors.

His passing is being mourned by political leaders, former colleagues, and Rwandans who recognized his service to the country.