Mushikiwabo was speaking at the National Dialogue, commonly known as Umushyikirano, on Monday.
During a discussion about the National Strategy for Transformation, Mushikiwabo said that Rwanda is a transformational-led country which values human being.
“Recently, Rwandan government announced that the country is ready to receive Africans who were turned into slaves in Libya. This is an act of valuing human being,” she said.
“In partnership with other African States, African Union (AU) Commission and Europe, we are organizing to receive some of these migrants in the beginning of 2018. Such act of humanity and respecting human being is part of main strategies for transformation,” she explained.
Based on Rwandan history, Mushikiwabo said that Rwandans could acquire positive values from foreigners, but leave away bad ones as they continue to value human being.
The Government of Rwanda admitted to receive a total of 30,000 migrants from Libya.
The two-day conference brought together about 2,000 Rwandans, including central government and local government officials, businesses, civil society, other members of the Rwandan community and diplomats.
Kagame said that there is no doubt that the country has grown stronger and more united, urging to continue to do better.
In agriculture he said, after a period of slow growth last year, agricultural production grew by 8 per cent this year. He said the production came despite challenges, such as army worm and drought in some parts of the country
“The hard work of citizens has really paid off and I wish to thank you for this and ask you to keep it up,” he said on the growth of Agriculture.
He said the cooperation among government institutions has made delivery of inputs to farmers more timely and reduced corruption in the system. He said that increased access to irrigation has also helped raise productivity.
“We have decided to invest in domestic seed production, to improve quality and also reduce our dependence on unreliable supplies from abroad,” he said.
“It is encouraging to note that graduates are also finding entrepreneurial success in agribusiness. I call on more young people, to consider the opportunities in this sector,” he said.
On the economic front, he said, $1.5 billion in new investment and infrastructure deals were registered in 2017, which includes the new international airport, which is under construction in Bugesera.
The head of state said the conference tourism strategy is bearing fruit as Rwanda hosted 169 international meetings this year, which brought tens of thousands of customers to hotels, restaurants and national airline, RwandAir.
On Made in Rwanda, he said, strategy has already boosted production compared to the same period last year.
“Our exports have increased by 50%, while our imports have declined by 3%. As a result, our trade deficit fell by more than 20%,” he explained.
He said more than 8,000 new manufacturing jobs were registered this year, adding that they will continue to build on such achievement.
Kagame said that mineral exports now exceed the value of all other exports, combined, which is attributable, in part, to more effort in value addition and new exploration.
He went on to say that Rwanda’s electricity supply continues to grow. He said to stimulate demand for that power; government will work with industrial investors to ensure a competitive tariff.
“The State of our Nation is something we should evaluate constantly. Is the pace of development as fast as we would like? Are we looking after the well-being of all Rwandans without leaving anyone behind? The responsibility to ask and provide answers is ours,” Kagame noted.
Kagame said he believes that a revolution in the quality of education, at all levels, must be among the country’s highest priorities.
“Human capital is the most important feature of a high-income economy,” he said.
“We have had to deal with so many challenges, even impossible ones. But we rebuilt, stronger and more resilient than ever before,” he added.
Kagame assured that they will continue to document and preserve the history of the country, and to pursue own accountability, and others, where necessary.
“We cannot take our gains, or our future prosperity, for granted. Peace, security, and national cohesion are not irreversible,” Kagame noted.
Kagame said the expectations of Rwandans are growing fast, adding that it is not a problem as it pulls the ambitions higher and fuels a culture of always striving to do more, and better.
“We have opportunities and we have each other. Hard work and the commitment to serve all Rwandans is what will lead to our country’s transformation,” he assured.
He thanked citizens for playing an active role in the country’s development, for preserving the gains that have been made and the security; he said adding that they are the foundation of progress.
He urged Rwandans to continue to work together, within the country as well as with the neighbours and with the continent as a whole.
During this year’s Umushyikirano, participants are discussing about the National Strategy for Transformation, Values for Prosperity and the Youth at the Centre of Transformation.
Speaking to IGIHE last week, Amb Rugira said the efforts intend to give the King a decent burial in Rwanda.
“Discussions are yet to start but we are preparing to open them in the near future as they don’t have more right than us on the body. He was the king of Rwanda and his body should be in Rwanda. I think they will not resist,” Rugira said.
However, Rugira did not reveal when discussions are set to start, saying he will first consult with Rwandan institutions for a common understanding about what to take into discussions.
Musinga was the son of Kigeli IV Rwabugiri and the father of two Rwanda’s kings, Mutara III Rudahigwa and Kigeli V Ndahindurwa.
Musinga died from Moba in the Democratic Republic of Congo and his body was taken to Belgium by colonialists. Musinga reigned in Rwanda from 1896 to 1931.
Recently, the senate urged the government to finds ways of returning to Rwanda archives and other historical artifacts.
Senator Jeanne d’Arc Gakuba said that Musinga’s body has a great role in Rwandan history among other historical objects that should be preserved. She added that it should be repatriated.
“We have many archives and history artifacts abroad. Why don’t we bring them back to Rwanda? As you know, the body of King Musinga is still in Belgium, why so? He was the King of Rwandans, we have the right to ask for his body,” she said.
It is said that there are over 1000 skulls of Rwandans that were also taken to Belgium during the colonial period. The two-year research was launched to identify their real origin.
He stated this while addressing 3,000 Rwandans from all districts gathered for the 6th Annual YouthConnekt Convention taking place at Petit Stade, Remera.
He said that the Youth should connect and learn from one another and to join their efforts to address their problems.
“As youth, you must be willing to constantly learn. You must have the humility to accept criticism as a means to become better,” he admonished.
On democracy and freedom, President Kagame advised the youth to uphold the two principles while maintaining their own values which will help them realize the principles.
“The right values must remain at the center of all that you do. Processes can change but our values remain the same,” he said.
President Kagame said that they must be willing to never stop learning and think critically.
“Being young is not enough but it is a great opportunity. Being young does not mean anything until you invest in yourself with what will be useful to you, your family and your country,” he said.
“You are as good as your peers from other countries. Do not take anything for granted. It is up to us to work to be where we want to be and claim Africa’s seat at the high table.”
Kagame rebuked those who want to give lessons to Rwandans, saying that they have to deal with their own problems first.
“Does what you accuse me of not exist in your country? Do you love me more than I love myself? Or do you care more about my fate than the fate of your own citizens?”
He urged Rwanda’s youth not to be at a standstill waiting to be helped to move forward.
“Any assistance must add to our own efforts. It must lead to ending dependency and achieving self reliance. It is a question of mindset, you must believe in your ability to help yourself. With the right mindset, you can recognize your need for help but set a timeline to build yourself up and help yourself,” he said
“When you look at international gatherings, ask yourselves why Africa, Rwanda are not considered worthy of being at the high table. It is your role as the youth to claim and work for Rwanda’s seat at the high table. ”
He urged the gathering to identify their and work hard to achieve them because “We are all created equal. You should never think that you are not good enough to be at the high table.”
Kagame was speaking on Saturday while concluding the three-day the RPF Congress that coincided with the celebration of party’s 30-year anniversary in Kigali.
Kagame said that over the three days of the congress, they have had very enriching experience and discussions.
“This RPF Congress has been an occasion for us to recommit to attaining our country’s transformation agenda,” he said.
He said part of their organizational renewal is in the election of those to lead them through the next phase. He said, those they have elected come from different age brackets, especially the young ones.
“We are empowering our youth by charging them with more responsibilities. Their contribution should define the history of our country for more decades to come,” Kagame noted.
“We leave here revitalised and dedicated to give the best of ourselves. I hope we will continue to be together to enjoy the 30th anniversary celebrations,” he added.
He said they have had to reflect on the last 30 years and plan for the next 30 years and more.
“Let’s pledge to work hard towards ensuring that those who will be visiting our country after every ten year-period will find a more developed Rwanda,” he tasked party members.
“Very organisation, more so, a transformational one like the RPF, needs to redirect its focus in the face of ever changing realities and circumstances,” he added.
He said the congress and 30th anniversary, have been an opportunity to recommit themselves to attaining the goals of the party.
Meanwhile, the national 30-year anniversary celebration event was marked by different socio-economic development activities performed by RPF members from different parts of the country.
As part of the preparation early this month too, the party had youth and women league that revolved around their contribution in the development of the country.
The congress ended by voting new party leaders. Kagame was re-elected the RPF Chairman while Christophe Bazivamo and François Ngarambe were also retained as Vice-Chairman and Secretary General respectively.
The RPF National Committee consists of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary General and 22 commissioners, 10 representing youth and 12 representing the general public.
Meanwhile, no changes have been made in the top three positions as beside the Chairman who was retained, Christophe Bazivamo and François Ngarambe were also re-elected the Vice-Chairman and Secretary General respectively.
The National Unity and Reconciliation Commission Executive Secretary, Fidele Ndayisaba fronted incumbent Kagame on chairmanship saying that he is forward-looking and that there is a lot he still has to bring to the party and country in general.
Sheikh Abdoul-Karim Harerimana reiterated the point saying that Kagame is a strategist and delivers on whatever he promises.
On Vice-Chairman, Senator Tito Rutaremara endorsed Bazivamo saying that he has proven capable both as Vice-Chairman and as a civil servant in different positions he has held over the years. “He has also represented us well in East African Legislative Assembly”
Deputy Speaker Jeanne d’Arc Uwimanimpaye endorsed Francois Ngarambe as Secretary General saying that his capabilities are undoubtedly visible to everyone.
{{Election Results}}
Kagame was elected at 99,9% with 2,340 out of 2,342 votes cast by members that were present in the congress.
Bazivamo was elected with 2,292 votes out of 2,342 votes while Ngarambe was re-elected by 2,281 voters.
{{Elected Commissioners }}
{{· General Commissioners}}
GASAMAGERA Wellars; MUSONI James; UWACU Julienne; KABONEKA Francis; HABUMUREMYI Pierre Damien; MUKASINE Marie Claire; GASINZIGWA Odda; TUMUSHIME Francine; SINDIKUBWABO Jean Nepo; MWIZA Esperance; HARELIMANA Abdul Karim; MUKAZAYIRE Nelly.
Owned by a Rwandan investor, Joseph Mugisha, the hotel located in Kiyovu, in the heart of Kigali, was on Friday opened by the Head of State accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame and other high ranking officials from the central government and private sector.
Kagame thanked Rwandan investors for the good job they are doing in developing hospitality services in the country.
“Such investments are very important but they also make sense when they unite people from all walks of life to help build the nation,” he said.
He said that investment by Rwandans has a great role in the development of the population beyond what they can imagine.
“Such investment by Rwandan nationals from inside the country is good as they enable the economy to be stable,” he said, reminding that cooperation with foreigners is also vital.
“This investment can be done by a family or Rwandans themselves but most of the time it is better and are more valuable when they cooperate with foreigners as they bring in much more things,” he said.
Emphasizing the need for more local investors, Kagame said that when the situation changes, foreigners shift their assets and leave a gap in the country but locally owned investments remain.
The head of state hailed Mugisha’s investment urging other Rwandans to follow the suit.
“I am happy to extend my personal support so that investments of this kind can thrive and ensure that we change the lives of Rwandans,” he promised.
Mugisha thanked President Kagame good leadership, saying it enabled him to attain such an achievement in hospitality.
“I appreciate the way you continue to support private investors; this is a result of good leadership in the country,” he said.
Park Inn by Radisson hotel has 161 rooms including conference rooms, restaurant, night club, swimming pool, parking, gym and sauna among other facilities.
The hotel employs 180 people, among them, 178 are Rwandans.
Through his twitter handle, Kagame said that Africa has lost a brilliant mind.
“Saddened to hear of the passing of Prof Calestous Juma. We have lost a brilliant mind who was dedicated to innovation, education and Africa’s prosperity. Condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace,” reads the Head of State’s tweet.
Others who expressed their condolences include, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Community Affairs, Louise Mushikiwabo who said that Africa has lost a very important African who was always striving to serve the continent.
“Calestous was a very valuable African, always wanting his brilliant mind to serve the continent! May his family and Havard colleagues find in his life strength and solace!” reads the Minister’s tweet.
According to Daily Nation, Calestous was unwell for the past two years.
“Prof has been unwell for the past two years and today we received the sad news of his passing. Any more details will come from his family,” Calestous lawyer, Peter Wanyama told Daily Nation yesterday.
{{About Calestous}}
According to Daily Nation, in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Calestous had been listed among the most influential 100 Africans by the New African magazine.
He began his career as a science teacher in Mombasa between 1974 and 1978 before becoming the first science and environment journalist for Daily Nation between 1978 and 1979.
He later started his own magazine, Ecoforum.
It was during his brief stint at the Nation that environmental issues were prominently covered by Kenyan media.
He later worked as an editor and researcher at the Environment Liaison Centre in Nairobi between 1979 and 1982.
The scientist, who attained a teacher’s certificate from Egoji Teacher’s College in 1974, also held a PhD in Science Policy Research from the University of Sussex.
At the time of his death, he was teaching graduate courses on science, technology and development policy and biotechnology at Harvard University.
Kagame was speaking Friday in RPF’s Congress in Kigali ahead of 30 year anniversary main event slated on Saturday
He said about 23 years ago, Rwanda was being looked as a failed state or just on the way to be the state.
“When they were proven wrong, they changed the narrative that we would be a failed state in the distant future,” he said.
“We must not be strayed by misguided theories of so-called governance experts. We do things the way we believe the way is better for us,” he said.
Speaking on human capital to drive Rwanda’s journey of transformation, Kagame said that “it is not that we don’t have the human resource, we just do not have enough to drive this going by our pace,”
Kagame said that Rwandans should not be shy in their interests.
“As long as we have looked into it and its implications, we cannot look for approval from anywhere else,” he noted.
Kagame was speaking after the panel discussion of former African Development Bank Group President, Dr. Donald kaberuka, Rwanda Mining and Petroleum Board Chief Executive Officer, Francis Gatare; the US based Lifting and Empowering All Families Pharmaceuticals CEO, Dr. Clet Niyikiza and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Community, Louise Mushikiwabo.
Their discussions revolved around the topic ‘Shaping Rwanda for Global Challenges’.
On the panel, Kaberuka urged the youth to find solutions for their own problems within Africa, rather than looking for greener pastures outside the continent.
Dr Kaberuka was speaking Friday at the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF)-Inkotanyi Congress in Kigali.
He was in the panel with the Rwanda Mining and Petroleum Board Chief Executive Officer, Francis Gatare; the US based Lifting and Empowering All Families Pharmaceuticals CEO, Dr. Clet Niyikiza and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Community, Louise Mushikiwabo. Their discussions revolved around the topic ‘Shaping Rwanda for Global Challenges’.
Dr Kaberuka said the global circumstances, that prevailed at the time former Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) launched the liberation struggle, marked what was called Afro-pessimism. ‘The global order was: what can we do for Africa?’
“The RPF then has major role to play in changing the narrative. We did not want to be objects of pity,” he said.
He said one thing that has shaped Rwanda after the RPF assumed leadership is the determination to deliver on what is set out to do.
“Very few countries have managed to do that and I witnessed that during my time at African Development Bank Group as president,” he said adding that the RPF has demystified the biblical tale of David versus Goliath concept on the Worldview of Africa.
Kaberuka reminded the youth to find solutions for their own problems in Africa.
“To the youth here, I want to tell you that Africa should wake up to the reality that the solution to our problems is here on the continent. We should stop looking elsewhere,” he urged youth.
Mushikiwabo said that Rwandans must not waste their energy on roadside politics. She said Africa must put her efforts together.
Niyikiza noted that to be able to navigate the unpredictable global challenges, Africans must instill into their children the culture of thinking big, innovate and have strategies in place to protect the innovations.
