Strengthening governance and democracy is critical to the cause of social and economic advancement in any country.
The Government of Rwanda as a result views good governance as one of the key flagship programs which ensures essential condition for development and peace.
It is widely acknowledged that Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction, reconciliation and economic development have been marked by fundamental improvements in governance.
President Paul Kagame notes, “from experience that peace, security, and equal opportunities for all –including gender equality – are important pillars of good governance, and a strong basis for socio-economic development”.
In order to echo Rwandan’s unique model, ProfessorAnastase Shyaka, CEO of the Rwandan Governance Board was invited by The Atlantic Council and the International Republican Instituteand spoke at the “Democratic Governance Speakers Series”, in Washington D.C.,ongovernance in Rwanda.
Along with the Professor Shyaka was, Dr. J. Peter Pham, the Director of the Michael S. Ansari Africa Center at the AtlanticCouncil and Mr. Paul Fagan, Regional Director of Africa at the International Republic Institute.
During his remark, Prof. Shyaka provided a retrospective assessment of democratization and political governance in Rwanda.
Moreover, he analyzed the progress and challenges as well as identified strategic options used to reach the optimum goal of the present Rwanda’s model which is“citizen centered governance.”
Professor Shyaka also discussedRwanda’s Joint Governance Assessment program (JGA) which seeks to develop a common understanding of governance issues, various homegrown solutions and media reforms that contribute to the overall success of governance in Rwanda.
He also highlighted the Rwandan Governance Board being used as “one stop center” for governance in the country.
In concluding his remarks, Professor Shyaka also reiterated that building solid relationships amongst governments should go beyond “just aid” and therefore iskey in harboring positive governance between nations.
Over the next few days, Prof. Shayaka will also be part of the first “International Conference on Democratic Governance, Challenges in Africa and Asia” at the University of Pennsylvania and Cheyney University which is co-hosted by the Rwandan Governance Board.
The ultimate goal of this conference is to provide a platform to discuss multiple dimensions of democratic governance and corruption and help devise strategies to improve governance practices and anti-corruption strategies for the countries in the developing world.
The conference will also feature roundtable discussions with Ambassadors of Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria and Botswana. Over 60 scholars and practitioners from Asia, Africa, Europe and the United States will make presentations and share their theoretical and practical insights on the challenges for democratic governance.
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