Introduction

The purpose of these guidelines is to define and standardize the process for acquiring, implementing, and maintaining software in Government institutions in Rwanda. They provide leading practices for managing software at each stage of the software lifecycle with the objective of reducing software implementation risks leading to successful software projects.

In an increasingly digital era, government institutions are leveraging software systems to deliver services online, digitalize internal processes, improve efficiency, and foster transparency. The effective management of these software systems, from their initial conceptualization to their decommission is paramount to achieving these goals.  This necessitates a robust approach to develop software lifecycle management guidelines ensuring that software systems are not only fit for purpose but also secure, sustainable, and deliver optimal value throughout their operational lifespan. 
This document outlines guidelines to facilitate software lifecycle management specifically developed and implemented by government institutions, with emphasis on the procurement of software systems and inhouse developed systems from the point of project initiation, implementing and retirement.

These guidelines will empower government institutions to make informed decisions, foster innovation, and ultimately deliver superior digital services to the citizens they serve.
RISA serves as the central coordinating body mandated to provide oversight, standardization, and expertise to ensure that software development and acquisition aligns with national strategies including; ( NST2 - the second generation of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) emphasizes the need to optimize governance structures to support efficient implementation, institutional framework, planning and coordination structures will be optimized and aligned with NST2 priorities thereby enabling faster and better service  delivery. 

Data protection law,  ICT sector strategic plan, National data sharing policy, Blueprint digitalization transformation roadmap. ), promotes interoperability, mitigate risks, and optimize public expenditure, by centralizing the governance of ICT project, we aim to prevent fragmented systems, reduce duplication of efforts, enhance cybersecurity.
RISA, in collaboration with government institutions, will take the lead in software systems procurement processes, and provide support throughout the implementation of software systems.