President Paul Kagame on Tuesday officially opened the 20th edition of Rwanda’s National Dialogue Council (Umushyikirano), expressing gratitude to participants and highlighting the forum’s role in driving the country’s development agenda.
Speaking at the opening session, President Kagame said he was pleased to see citizens and leaders actively taking part in the dialogue.
“I am happy and I sincerely thank all of you who were able to attend this National Dialogue Council so that it can proceed successfully. Your participation carries great meaning for our country. It is a step that leads us toward even greater achievements,” he said.
The 20th Umushyikirano comes two years after the previous session held in 2024, which produced key resolutions focused on boosting agricultural productivity, expanding agro-processing facilities, and strengthening the involvement of Rwandans living abroad in national development many of which have since been successfully implemented.
Poorly Managed Projects Raised as a Concern
President Kagame used the platform to raise concerns about weak coordination among public institutions, which he said has resulted in some development projects being poorly planned or inadequately monitored.
“There are cases where a project is prepared incompletely because institutions that should have worked together failed to coordinate,” Kagame said.
He added that even when projects are launched, follow-up often remains weak.
“You find a project stalling, slowing down, or going off track, and no one notices because there is no proper monitoring. These are problems we have lived with for many years — progress one day, then forgotten the next. We must put an end to this cycle,” he emphasized.
The President called for accountability and consistent follow-up to ensure projects reach completion and deliver the intended impact.
Government Pledges Improved Performance
In his address, Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving service delivery and institutional cooperation.
“Your Excellency, we assure you that we are strengthening efficiency across all sectors, improving coordination among institutions, and getting closer to citizens. We are fully committed to achieving these goals,” the Prime Minister said.
Strong Progress on 2024 Resolutions
Officials also reported significant progress on resolutions adopted during the 2024 National Dialogue Council.
Out of 13 resolutions agreed upon, implementation has reached 80 percent. These resolutions included 41 specific actions, of which 34 have already been completed, while seven are in their final stages.
The measures focus on boosting economic growth, improving citizens’ welfare, and strengthening governance systems across the country.
The National Dialogue Council remains one of Rwanda’s key platforms for direct engagement between leadership and citizens, shaping national priorities and accountability.
Alice DUSABIMANA / KIGALI TIMES