Outgoing Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) executive director Francis Kiwanga (right) hands over documents to his successor Justice Rutenge as FCS board chairman Ally Laay looks on in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday. Photo | CORRESPONDENT
Mr Justice Rutenge previously served the organisation as advisor for seven years and will succeed Mr Francis Kiwanga when he officially steps down on May 1 after leading the organisation since 2015
Dar es Salaam. The Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) has appointed Mr Justice Rutenge as its new executive director.
FCS board chairman Ally Laay announced Mr Rutenge’s appointment at a news conference in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday.
The incoming FCS executive director previously served the organisation as advisor for seven years and will succeed Mr Francis Kiwanga when he officially steps down on May 1 after leading the organisation since 2015.
Dr Laay highlighted Mr Rutenge’s wealth of knowledge and expertise in local, regional and global programming, saying the appointment ushers in an exciting chapter for the FCS as it builds upon its past successes.
“Following a rigorous five-month search, the board is fully confident in Mr Rutenge’s appointment. He has the full support of all board members as he embarks on a fresh journey of cementing the FCS’ position as a facilitator of people-centred development in Tanzania and an important voice in the global development discourse. We ask all our stakeholders and the general public to accord Mr Rutenge and his team the necessary cooperation as they execute their duties,” he said.
Dr Laay saluted Mr Kiwanga for his contribution during his time as head of the organisation, saying the FCS has made remarkable progress in realising its vision and mission as a result of his strategic direction and commitment.
Mr Kiwanga expressed confidence in Mr Rutenge’s appointment, saying, “He will be charged with leading a bold vision of one of Tanzania’s key civil society institutions. He takes over the leadership role at FCS at a critical juncture of shifting aid sector dynamics and a rapidly evolving technology landscape. Having worked with Mr Rutenge, I’m confident that his dynamic vision and proactive approach will elevate our organisation to unprecedented levels of success.”
Mr Rutenge expressed his gratitude at being appointed FCS executive director and stressed the crucial role of collaboration among stakeholders in achieving the strategic objectives of the organisation and upholding its commitment to people-centred, inclusive and sustainable development.
“I’m deeply passionate about upholding the FCS’ great legacy and I pledge to lead with integrity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to our goals. Facilitating partnerships for development – the ethos of the FCS – perfectly aligns with my conviction that collaboration is key to sustainable development. Therefore, I will rely heavily on the engagement and support of all our stakeholders in achieving our shared goals.”
Mr Rutenge holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Integrated Community Development from Daystar University and a Master of Science (MSc) in Media, Communication and Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Business and Management, with specialisation in Marketing Research, at Strathmore University Business School.
