This study investigates the challenges facing students in the learning of Kiswahili at Gakoni Adventist College, located in Kiramuruzi, Gatsibo District, Eastern Province, Rwanda. Despite Kiswahili's status as an official language in the East African Community and its growing importance in regional integration, many students at the college struggle with acquiring proficiency in the language. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, including questionnaires, interviews, and classroom observations, to collect data from students, teachers, and administrators. Findings revealed that major challenges include limited availability of Kiswahili teaching materials, lack of qualified teachers, negative student attitudes influenced by the dominance of English and French, and interference from local languages. Additionally, the study found that limited exposure to Kiswahili outside the classroom further impedes language acquisition. The paper concludes with recommendations for improving Kiswahili instruction, including curriculum support, teacher training, and the incorporation of more practical language use in and outside the classroom