The Southern Province is a public institution created by law n°14/2013 of 25/03/2013 reviewing the law no 01/2016 of 24/01/2006 determining the organisation and functioning of the province . It was the result of the fusion of the former provinces of Gitarama, Butare and Gikongoro. It consists of eight (8) districts which are: Gisagara, Huye, Kamonyi, Muhanga, Nyamagabe, Nyanza, Nyaruguru and Ruhango. It is also composed of one hundred and one 101 sectors, 532 cells and 3501 villages.

The Province has  the following responsibilities:

1° to supervise and advise Districts on the implementation of Government programs;

 2° to carry out advocacy for Districts;

 3° to advise Districts on development activities;

 4° to oversee activities designed to maintain the safety of persons and property.