Dr. Charles Karangwa is a Rwandan forensic scientist, pharmaceutical scientist, and educator with over 20 years of experience in forensic science, forensic toxicology, food and pharmaceutical regulation, laboratory quality management, and public health. He holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy, a DEA (Master of Advanced Studies), and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a specialization in Toxicology, complemented by a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical and Forensic Toxicology.

Since 2022, he has served as the Director General of the Rwanda Forensic Institute (RFI), leading the advancement of Rwanda’s national forensic science services through strengthened specialized forensic capabilities, research and innovation, quality management systems, and strategic partnerships. His leadership supports RFI’s vision of becoming a national centre of excellence and a regional reference institution for forensic science.

Previously, Dr. Karangwa served as the first Acting Director General of the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (2018–2021), where he contributed to strengthening Rwanda’s medicines, food safety, and regulatory systems. He is also the founder of the Laboratory of Analysis of Foodstuffs, Medicines, Water and Toxic Substances (LADAMET) and has served as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Rwanda, contributing to the training and development of professionals in clinical and forensic toxicology.

His research interests include clinical and forensic toxicology, pharmaceutical quality assurance, public health protection, and forensic sciences. He has contributed to scientific publications and professional collaborations at national, regional, and international levels.